Two local boys earn pilot wings

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Trevor T. McBride
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Witnessing aircraft from the control tower, meeting Twinkle the owl and earning pilot wings contributed to an exciting day for two boys that participated in RAF Lakenheath's Pilot for a Day program June 25.

Max Rowlandson, a 5-year-old from Saffron Walden, and Alex Lister, a 10-year-old from Licken Village, both suffering from a life-threatening illness, visited RAF Lakenheath for an opportunity to get a break from the routine hospital visits.

"It's been very beneficial to my son," said Daniel Rowlandson, Max's father. "He's got a love for aircraft, and for him to have the opportunity to actually come see them is very exciting."

"I want to fly one!" exclaimed Max. "It was awesome!"

Throughout the day, Max and Alex received custom-made flight suits, a close-up view of an F-15E Strike Eagle and HH-60G Pave Hawk, a look through night-vision goggles, an air traffic control tower tour, a fire department and birds of prey demonstration, and at the end of the day they were presented with their own set of fighter pilot wings.

"This is definitely an honor," said Capt. Charles Price, 492nd Fighter Squadron pilot. "Showing them what we do on a daily basis is the least I can do for these guys."

The Pilot for a Day program was founded in March 2012 by Maj. Jason Bianchi, 493rd Fighter Squadron pilot, for children in the local community fighting life-threatening illnesses to have the chance to enjoy a day as a pilot.

"They have been thrilled to be here. Just seeing the smiles on their face is what keeps me going," added Price.