The 85th Flying Training Squadron (FTS) “Tigers” recently took part in a significant outreach initiative called “Wings for Warriors,” hosted at the Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH) located in Houston on November 15, 2024. This event marked the inaugural collaboration between Laughlin Air Force Base and TCH, aimed at spreading joy and support to young patients facing challenging health battles.
Captains Charles Blum and Tyler Konek, both instructor pilots from the 85th FTS, led a team of four instructors to engage with over 100 patients and their families. Their mission was clear: to light up the holiday season for young warriors battling serious illnesses, including cancer. “We wanted to spark the start of the holiday season through honoring young warriors, who are fighting through some of the most difficult realities imaginable,” Blum remarked.
The pilots initiated their visit with a gathering in “The Zone,” a recreational area within the hospital, before moving on to connect with patients in individual rooms, particularly those receiving treatment at the TCH Cancer Center. Lt. Col. Imran Khan, the commander of the 85th FTS, expressed his pride in the initiative, highlighting the significant impact that community service can have. “Giving back to the community in such meaningful ways is a testament to the caring spirit of our Instructor Pilots and Team XL,” he said.
During their interactions, the pilots fostered creativity and engagement by building T-6 Lego models, painting toy aircraft, and sharing Air Force-themed coloring books. These activities not only provided entertainment but also an opportunity for personal connection. “The visit impacted the patients in an extremely positive way,” said Konek, noting how the staff at TCH relayed the significant morale boost the visits provided to the children, especially those new to treatment.
In a show of solidarity, each young participant was named an “Honorary Tiger,” receiving flight suit nametapes and other squadron merchandise. Blum noted the importance of these moments, saying, “The patients thoroughly appreciated getting their own ‘Honorary Tiger’ patches, and they were excited about becoming a part of the 85 FTS Tiger Family.”
Through this outreach, the 85th FTS not only embodied the Air Force’s Core Value of “Service Before Self,” but also exemplified how community engagement can foster resilience and hope. The event allowed the pilots to step outside their training environment, engage with inspiring young individuals, and cultivate a sense of perseverance that could affect future generations.
Reflecting on the experience, Blum said, “Learning about the goals and dreams of each of the patients through one-on-one interactions was incredibly impactful. I will never forget this experience, and I will take these memories throughout the rest of my life.” Such heartfelt gestures remind us all of the strength found in community connections and the ways we can uplift one another during difficult times.
Overall, “Wings for Warriors” not only brought smiles to children at TCH but also highlighted the beauty of service, compassion, and the power of human connection in overcoming life’s challenges.