Ninety-year-old Russell Louden is seen before and during his recent skydiving experience. (Courtesy photos)
By CRAIG ALANIZ
Reporter/Photographer
press@portisabelsouthpadre.com
Russell Louden decided to do something drastic to celebrate his birthday in 2013. He drove his motorcycle from his temporary home in Weslaco to the Island to skydive for his first time last Saturday.
Louden said he was an Army brat growing up so he spent time all over the country, but has been visiting the Valley for the past 20 years. He said he stays in the Valley for four months and really enjoys his time here with the people.
Louden said in his “short” life he had never had the opportunity to jump from a plane. He said it had always been a dream of his that he would finally realize on his 90th birthday.
He was willing to jump in the service, but the paratrooper school closed just before he enlisted, Louden said.
“I tried getting George Bush Sr. to jump with me this time, but he was very ill – that would have stirred some things up,” Louden said.
The descent was not as nerve wracking as once thought, Louden said. The ride was very smooth and enjoyable.
“The gulf looked just like a piece of glass,” Louden said.
Louden said he had over 20 people waiting for him on the ground at Clayton’s beach. He said next year he would bring one of his best friends, who is 89 years old, to join him on another jump.
“I just asked Jesus to jump with me and I am sure he was with me on that beautiful experience,” Louden said.
Read this story in the Jan. 31 edition of the Port Isabel-South Padre Press, or subscribe to our E-Edition by clicking here.
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