‘Lusty’ is a refined carrier, U.S. pilots say

By Vago Muradian - Staff writer
Posted : Tuesday Aug 7, 2007 11:36:29 EDT

ABOARD THE HMS ILLUSTRIOUS — What’s the definition of heaven if you’re a Marine Harrier pilot? Why, spending two weeks on one of Britain’s aircraft carriers, of course.

“What’s not to like? The flying’s awesome, the food and quarters are great, and you can get a drink at the end of the day,” said Maj. Stephan “Poppy” Bradicich, the executive officer of Marine Attack Squadron 542 who helped plan the unprecedented embarkation of 16 Harriers and 200 Marines aboard HMS Illustrious, known as “Lusty” to its crew.

More at http://www.navytimes.com/news/2007/08/navy_lustymain_070805/