Maverick
[Maverick chances upon Rooster at the ready room in the wake of Phoenix and Bob's bird strike]
They're keeping Phoenix and Bob in the hospital overnight for observation. They're gonna be okay.
Rooster
That's good. [pauses] I've never lost a wingman.
Maverick
You're lucky. Keep flying long enough, it'll happen. There will be others.
Rooster
Easy for you to say. No wife, no kids. No one to miss you when you burn in.
Maverick
Get some sleep. [goes to leave]
Rooster
Why'd you pull my papers at the Academy? Why did you stand in my way?
Maverick
You weren't ready.
Rooster
Ready for what? Huh? Ready to fly like you?
Maverick
No, ready to forget the book. Trust your instincts! Don't think, just do. You think up there, you're dead. Believe me.
Rooster
My dad believed in you. I'm not gonna make the same mistake.
