[Publius]

What has been lost in all of this, according to the commander, is that it was the Navy's idea for the President to come aboard and make a tailhook landing. They opted for an F-18. Because of security, however, the White House opted for the Viking, a 4-seater which could accommodate Secret Service.

My understanding was that the Secret Service itself nixed the F-18 -- which is a shame. Dubya might have enjoyed trying some aerobatics in an F-18. At least he got some stick time in the Viking.

[doug from upland]

When he mentioned "they," I presume the Secret Service had gone somewhat ballistic and the WH acquiesed to their wishes. So the WH decided on the Viking, obviously with the blessing of the SS.