The 85th Flying Training Squadron (FTS), known as the “Tigers,” engaged in a meaningful outreach initiative named “Wings for Warriors” at the Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH) in Houston, Texas, on November 15, 2024. This was the first event of its kind at Laughlin Air Force Base and aimed to bring joy and support to young patients facing serious health challenges.
U.S. Air Force Captains Charles Blum and Tyler Konek, both instructor pilots from the 85th FTS, led a team of four additional T-6 instructor pilots to connect with over 100 patients and their families. Their mission was to ignite the holiday spirit and honor the resilience of children battling tough illnesses, including cancer.
In their visit, the squadron pilots interacted with patients in a community space called “The Zone” and also made personal visits to those in the TCH Cancer Center. Capt. Blum expressed the importance of this connection, stating, “We wanted to spark the start of the holiday season through honoring young warriors.”
Lt. Col. Imran Khan, commander of the 85th FTS, praised the initiative, noting the joy it brought to both the children and the hospital staff. He highlighted that the outreach exemplified the squadron’s commitment to giving back to the community.
The pilots engaged in various creative activities with the children, including building T-6 Lego replicas, painting toy aircraft, and coloring in Air Force-themed books. Capt. Konek emphasized the positive impact their visits had, particularly how the interactions and visits increased morale among the children, especially those who had just undergone treatment.
As part of the outreach, patients were named “Honorary Tigers,” and received flight suit nametapes and squadron morale gear, further incorporating them into the 85 FTS family. Capt. Blum underscored the significance of these gestures, saying the children appreciated being recognized and included in their squadron community.
The “Wings for Warriors” initiative resonated deeply with the values of the Air Force, particularly the principle of “Service Before Self.” This program not only offered joy and encouragement to the patients but also fostered personal growth for the pilots involved. Capt. Blum reflected on the life-changing nature of the experience, stating, “Hearing their stories and sharing tangible experiences with them helped showcase the courage and perseverance of each patient. I will never forget this experience.”
This outreach program vividly exemplifies how community involvement can uplift those facing challenges, fostering hope and reminding young warriors that they are not alone in their struggles. By bringing smiles and support during the holiday season, the 85th FTS has truly made a lasting impact on these brave children and their families.