Meaning: The quote you provided is from Wally Schirra, an American astronaut. In this quote, Schirra reminisces about his childhood hero, Jimmy Doolittle, and the impact that meeting him later in life had on him. The quote reflects the admiration and respect that Schirra had for Doolittle, who was not only a war hero but also a renowned aviator.

James "Jimmy" Doolittle was a pioneering aviator and aeronautical engineer who made significant contributions to aviation history. He gained widespread recognition for leading the famous Doolittle Raid during World War II, which involved the first air raid by the United States on the Japanese home islands. Doolittle's remarkable leadership and bravery during the raid earned him the Medal of Honor and solidified his status as a war hero.

The reference to Doolittle flying a Gee Bee racer is significant as well. The Gee Bee R-1 and R-2 aircraft were iconic racing planes known for their speed and unique design. Doolittle's involvement with these planes further contributed to his legendary status in aviation history.

For Wally Schirra, seeing Doolittle fly a Gee Bee racer left a lasting impression on him during his childhood. It is evident that Doolittle's accomplishments and daring feats inspired Schirra and contributed to his fascination with aviation and space exploration.

The second part of the quote highlights an extraordinary experience that Schirra had later in life when he went hunting with Doolittle. This encounter with his childhood hero must have been a surreal and unforgettable moment for Schirra. It likely provided him with the opportunity to connect with and learn from someone he had long admired.

Schirra's reference to Doolittle as his childhood hero and the subsequent fortunate experience of going hunting with him illustrates the profound impact that Doolittle had on Schirra's life. It also sheds light on the personal connections and relationships that can develop between individuals who share a passion for aviation and exploration.

Wally Schirra's career as an astronaut further demonstrates the influence that figures like Jimmy Doolittle had on shaping the aspirations and pursuits of individuals in the field of aerospace. Schirra's achievements as one of the original seven astronauts in NASA's Project Mercury and later as a member of the Gemini and Apollo missions reflect his own contributions to space exploration.

In conclusion, the quote from Wally Schirra captures the admiration and respect he held for Jimmy Doolittle, a war hero and aviator, and the profound impact that meeting his childhood hero had on him. It serves as a reminder of the influential figures who inspire and shape the aspirations of future generations in the field of aerospace and beyond.