I spent 5 years at Beale AFB providing computer support for the SR-71 and to a lesser degree the U2/TR-1. It was one of the best assignments of my 24 year USAF career. We still live near Beale and I still see the U2s flying training missions. I am proud to be part of that unique team. IMO the SR-71 was retired because advances in communication made it predictable. As fast as it was, it could be seen coming and the target could hide for a few minutes. The SR had limited linger time, once it flew past, operations could continue. The U2 can hang around for hours and now can send down real time information. Eventually it may be replaced by drones, but in the mean time, the Dragon Lady lives.

Pat