I'm a (private) pilot. Many years ago, I faced a sudden engine failure and performed an emergency landing in a minuscule pasture surrounded by a very forested area. It very nearly costed me and my passengers' lives.

The plane was without engine for several minutes before I landed, yet that time was spent fully engrossed and completely focused on the problem. I had clarity of thought like nothing I've ever experienced.

No emotions — no fear, nothing — just stone cold rationality. Going through the checklist, Mayday call, considering options, etc. with swift and decisive precision.

Though I believe the extensive training certainly helped, to this day I'm amazed at the incredible stress response our body has evolved. Even though it happened many years ago, I still think about it a lot.