Zephyrhills, Florida – It was a beautiful summer day as we took off from a small airfield on our way to an altitude of 13,500 feet. Once above 1,000 feet, the door of the airplane was opened, and I felt my heart race as a shot of cool air filled the fuselage. I remember how strange it seemed when I watched as my good friend methodically climbed out of the airplane, hanging on the wing, turned to face me, and then let go. I didn’t have much time to watch him disappear into the void below until it was my turn. Prepare. Submit. Freefall.