Pilot for a Day

We had an amazing experience today at Dyess. Jack was blessed to be a part of the "Pilot for the Day" Program. Thanks to Super Dave our good friend from church who is a B-1 Pilot and to Guy S. who is a civilian firefighter on base. They both have worked hard to coordinate and bring today to fruition. The kids had a blast. We started out meeting several members of the 9th Bomb Squadron. Jack was presented several keepsakes from the base Colonel, who took time from his very busy schedule to meet Jack. After a short B-1 presentation we headed to the EOD Dept., the bomb squad. They got to see the bomb robot in action, then moved out to the range where Jack was able to detinate 2 different explosions. Then on to the Canine Unit where we saw some very cool and very trained dogs in action. We learned a bit about having a dog as your police partner. Then onto the building where we learned about all the guns and granade launchers. The kids were able to hold the weapons and try on some gear. Once that was over there were 2 Humvee's waiting to take the kids on a ride. They arrived back after about 10 minutes and had mud all over the vehicles and branches hanging off the rear view mirrors. Apparently the kids got to see some offroad action. Then onto the firestation. We saw their working, living and eating quarters. The kids got to put out a contained fire with the fire extinguishers, then we travelled by fire trucks to the training site and watched the jaws of life rip off a door from a car. Jack was able to shoot water out from the big fire truck. Then all the boys took turns. You will see in the slideshow where Jack turned the water on our vehicle, the captain's truck.
Then we ate pizza for dinner back at the 9th Squadron's Lounge area. We refueled then headed out to the transport van and loaded up to see Jack off to take his ride in the B-1. He was given headphones and a microphone to communicate with us. His call sign given to him by one of the B-1 crew was Jumpin Jack Flash, or Flash for short. He boarded the B-1 and was given a couple of duties for the checklist. Then they taxied down to the end of the runway. Jack and Super Dave climbed out of the plane and rejoined our group. It was a most special day for our kids and their good friends that came with us. God is great, just like the music says on the slideshow. Thank You to Dyess Air Force Base and especially to Dave and Guy. We are so grateful and blessed by you.
Click here to see a slideshow of the day.

Click here to read the Abilene Reporter News article written by Charles Anderson Sr.