Del Rio native becomes pilot for a day

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Scott Saldukas
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --   Laughlin and the members of Team XL were host to an honorary pilot for a day, Maria Ramos, a 20-year-old girl who is mentally challenged, received very important person's treatment Sept. 28.

The Pilot for a Day Program was created in 1994 at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, to benefit children and their families in local communities who have severe illnesses and have a day completely devoted to them.

Maria, along with her mother, Alma, and father, Jesus, kicked off their day by meeting members of the flying training squadrons here where the pilot for a day was able to look the part after receiving her very own flight suit with personalized name tag and squadron patches.

After suiting up and looking like an aviation expert, the honorary guest went to see a military working dog demonstration followed by an all access tour of the fire department.

While the day was filled with interesting and fun things, the most important was the smile Maria had throughout the day, said Capt. Travis Coleman, 86th Flying Training Squadron instructor pilot.

"She just lit up at the airplane's, fire trucks and the dog demonstration," Coleman said. "We had a great time and it's important for us to have programs like these, for us to give back to the community but more those less fortunate."

Laughlin and Del Rio work together to allow about four children a year the opportunity to participate in the program.

"This program gives children the opportunity to do amazing things that many people don't get to do," said Sharlene Perez, Texas Department of State Health Services social worker. "The children thrive from this program. You have children that see doctors all the time, that have been hospitalized or their lives revolve around an illness. This gives them the chance to be a kid."

Alma said Maria was anxious for her special day to come and knew she would love it.

"She knows that this day is special for her and it feels great knowing she is happy," her mother said. "She feels very important. I can't thank the people who are a part of this enough. Maria will never forget this."