Read this to know your
story isn’t over.
The true story of the flight that should have ended everything — and didn’t.
What Readers Are Saying
I was spellbound by this book! The author not only knows how to keep you engaged in the story, which is riveting, but also provides adequate details for those without a military background.
A true story of grit, courage, and faith. An inspirational account of overcoming trauma and loss, and the journey back. Anyone seeking healing should read this book!
WOW! I couldn’t put it down… His focus is not on sympathy but helping others, especially those experiencing post traumatic stress syndrome, as well as those struggling with setbacks and life reversals.
As a USAFA classmate who also flew T‑38s and KC‑135s, On Broken Wings hit me harder than I expected. Ken Mellott captures the intensity of Air Force flight training with absolute authenticity — I was right back in the cockpit with him.
Veterans Life Magazine
In the June/July 2026 issue, Veterans Life Magazine revisited the flight that changed everything — and the decades it took to find peace on the other side of it. Here’s how the story begins.
READ THE PROLOGUE
The warning light was the first sign. And then: a disturbing quiet.
Less than 30 minutes earlier, my student and I had completed our pre-flight inspection of this sleek and powerful Air Force jet.
But now, both aircraft engines have failed. Why? I don’t know.
12,000 feet…
We are plummeting to the earth.
The eerie silence is broken only by our ragged and heavy breaths over the intercom. In one minute, it will be too late to save it and ourselves.
“Lieutenant Mellott, no engines!” Zaree cries out over the intercom. “Engines not working!”
“I know. I’m trying another restart.”
I push the throttles to the emergency restart position again. Nothing happens.
11,000 feet…
“Zaree! Check your fuel boost pump switches.”
“Fuel boost pump switches good!” he shouts back. I barely have more experience than Lieutenant Zaree, but he doesn’t know what to do. I have to solve the problem. I’m the instructor.
I push both start buttons. Nothing happens.
10,000 feet…
Come on… come on… start!
It should work, but it doesn’t. We aren’t flying. We’re falling.
9,000 feet…
I have no answers. My chest tightens; hurried breaths gripped by hopelessness and fear.
My childhood dream to fly turned into a nightmare.
