The Spiritual Flight of Col. David O. Scheiding — From Marshalltown to the Mekong
- Global Literary
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
Canoga Park, CA— The narrative of war is often told through the lens of cold strategy or harrowing statistics. However, in his poignant memoir, Wings of Faith: A Vietnam Veteran's Journey Through War, Survival, and God's Calling, Col. David O. Scheiding, USAF (Ret.), offers something far more intimate: a testament to the "invisible co-pilot" that guided him through the turbulent skies of Southeast Asia and the complex terrain of a life dedicated to service.
Before he was a decorated pilot, Scheiding was a young man in Marshalltown, Iowa, absorbing the quiet, foundational lessons of the American Midwest. The book meticulously traces his evolution from a student of aerospace engineering to an ROTC cadet. These early chapters serve as more than just a biography; they are a study in the preparation of the soul.
Scheiding emphasizes that his path wasn't merely a career choice, but a divine calling. Supported by the unwavering love of his wife, Jan, he illustrates how a strong personal foundation is the only thing that can withstand the high-pressure environment of military aviation.
The "wings" in the title refer to Scheiding’s time as a Forward Air Controller (FAC) during the Vietnam War. Flying the O-2A Skymaster, a twin-engine aircraft known for its versatility but also its extreme vulnerability, Scheiding was tasked with flying low and slow to mark targets for strike aircraft.
What distinguishes Wings of Faith from a standard military memoir is Scheiding’s "heartfelt honesty" regarding his spiritual journey. He doesn't shy away from the "difficult seasons," instead framing them as necessary crucibles that shaped his character.
The book serves as a powerful reminder that purpose is often found in the sacrifice. For Scheiding, God wasn't just a concept to be revisited after the mission; He was a constant presence amidst the anti-aircraft fire and the uncertainty of the jungle below.
Whether you are a history buff, a veteran, or someone navigating your own personal "combat zone," Col. Scheiding’s story offers a roadmap for resilience.
For the Historian: It provides a rare, detailed look at the life of a FAC pilot.
For the Believer: It is a moving case study on how faith operates under fire.
For the General Reader: It is a deeply human story about coming home—both physically and spiritually.
Wings of Faith: A Vietnam Veteran’s Journey Through War, Survival and God’s Calling is currently available through major online retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and more. It stands as an essential addition to the literature of the Vietnam War, proving that while the body may be tested by war, the spirit can take flight.
Written by Col. David O. Scheiding
Paperback |
Hardcover |
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