A day to last a lifetime

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ariel D. Delgado
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The 85th Flying Training Squadron and other Team XL members welcomed Oscar Robles, a local youth, as he stepped in the shoes of a Laughlin pilot for the day.

The Pilot for a Day Program was created in 1994 to benefit local children and their families who have severe illnesses. The day is completely devoted to them and gives them the chance to experience life as an Air Force member.

Sporting a custom flight suit, with breakfast laid out before him and a crowd of Laughlin members clapping at his entrance, Oscar's ear-to-ear smile lit up his face.

The 11-year-old boy, who was raised by his grandmother since he was 2-months-old, was diagnosed with autism at the age of two. During his free time, Oscar likes to go fishing and watch cartoons.

"I love my boy," said Maria Robles, Oscar's grandmother. "I am so happy he is able to have this experience that not many can have. He deserves it."

As a pilot, Oscar was given a special tour of the base, with demonstrations by the fire station's crew and security forces. Oscar got his photo taken by the T-6A Texan II static display and was taken to fly in the T-6 simulator.

Oscar didn't say much throughout the day, but the excitement on his face said it all.

"Thank you mommy, for bringing me here," said Oscar as he tightly hugged his grandmother after every one of the day's events.

"Every night, he comes to me and thanks me for taking care of him," said Maria. "He is a tender boy. It warms my heart. I know he is very grateful to the base as well."

Before Oscar went home, the 85th FTS presented him with a gift and a farewell from the squadron commander.

"I feel fortunate that we have the time and resources to reach out to children in the community and be able to present this experience like we did," said 1st Lt. Tyler Byrd, 85th Flying Training Squadron standardization and evaluation liaison officer. "Setting this up was a lot of work, but I would not have changed a single thing. He is a great kid and the experience not only made his day, but it put a smile on everyone involved."