"PILOT FOR A DAY"
The 184th Bomb Wing, and 127th Bomb Squadron of the Kansas Air National Guard at McConnell AFB has implemented a superb program. The program relies on various community health organizations to identify children with debilitative illnesses to be designated the "Pilot for a Day." The children are among those who have expressed an interest in aviation. Once selected the child and his or her family and friends are invited to the base for a day filled with exciting experiences.
The child and entire entourage is met at the Main Gate by the 127th Bomb Squadron's host for that day. The electronic sign just inside the gate flashes a hearty welcome to the new "pilot" and they are whisked off to the squadron briefing room. Inside the briefing room the day's activities are explained and the child is led off to the Personal Equipment Shop to be fitted with a specially tailored flight suit and helmet. Photographs are taken here as well as throughout the day during the many events.
The "pilot" then goes to the flight line to get acquainted with the B-1B Strategic Bomber up close and personal. While there, the young "pilot" formally unveils the wrapping on the wheel well door to reveal his or her own name emblazoned in large block letters across the door. This is guaranteed to bring a smile to the lips of the youngster and perhaps a tear to the eye of the military men and women gathered around.
Up into the aircraft they go, nestled snugly in the Pilot's seat, they have the workings of the many instruments, knobs and dials explained in detail by other older and more experienced pilots ... pilots of the 127th bomb Squadron. They meet with and talk to a B-1B flight crew just before take-off and get to watch the airplane on it's take-off roll down the runway and climb out into the Kansas sky only to turn around and fly back for a special flyover for today's "pilot."
The young "pilot" then goes to actually fly the B-1B simulator which is used to train flight crews of the 184th Bomb Wing. He or she takes the simulator off and flies a mission under the tutelage of other crew members. Family members can also participate in this simulator flight although the full motion ride is reserved for the honoree of the day.
Lunch is provided for the whole party at Emerald City, the base's combination recreation center, restaurant and club. Commemorative "T" shirts are provided to the group and the "Pilot for a Day" receives a number of mementos and photographs...one personally autographed by the U.S. Air Force Aerial Demonstration Team members ... the "Thunderbirds" and another autographed by the men and women of the 184th Bomb Wing.
The men and women of the wing have thrown their hearts into this monthly activity. Some of the stories they tell are heartbreaking ... some of the stories are funny ... all of the stories are are inspirational. The 184th Bomb Wing is always in need of sponsors to this great program. Areas of sponsorships include both financial as well as material items. The Council of Chiefs is proud to be a sponsor. If you are interested in helping out with this program, please contact...Capt Gil Delgado, or Capt. Brian Moore at 687-7710.
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