In this deeply moving and insightful episode of The Ready Room Podcast with Legends and Leaders, host Tim sits down with Vice Admiral John Totushek, a veteran naval aviator whose career spans from the flight decks of Vietnam-era aircraft carriers to the top echelons of Pentagon leadership. Beginning his career flying the iconic F-4 Phantom and serving as a Carrier Landing Signal Officer (LSO), Totushek built a reputation for tactical precision and instruction. After transitioning to the private sector and continuing his service in the Naval Reserve flying adversary missions in the A-4 Skyhawk he was tapped to return to active duty and eventually serve as the 10th Chief of Naval Reserve.

On September 11, 2001, Vice Adm. Totushek was sitting at his desk on the fourth deck of the Pentagon’s E-Ring when American Airlines Flight 77 str ...