85th Flying Training Squadron participates in first “Wings for ...

The 85th Flying Training Squadron (FTS) “Tigers”, participated in Laughlin’s first ever “Wings for Warriors” outreach program with the Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH) at the Texas Medical Center in Houston Texas, Nov 15, 2024.  

U.S. Air Force Capts. Charles Blum and Tyler Konek, 85th FTS, instructor pilots (IPs), led a group of four T-6 Nation IPs to spread happiness and holiday cheer with patients, families and faculty at TCH.   

“We wanted to spark the start of the holiday season through honoring young warriors, who are fighting through some of the most difficult realities imaginable, including cancer and incurable illnesses.” said Blum.  

The pilots met and bonded with over 100 patients and their families, starting with a large group session at the hospital’s recreational space “The Zone.” They visited with patients from around the world with numerous medical hardships and traveled room-to-room to communicate with patients of the TCH Cancer Center.  

“It's heartwarming to know that the holiday cheer reached the children and staff at the Texas Children’s Hospital,” said Lt. Col. Imran Khan, 85th FTS Commander. “Giving back to the community in such meaningful ways is a testament to the caring spirit of our Instructor Pilots and Team XL.”. 

The IPs built T6 Lego replicas, painted toy aircraft, and filled out Air Force aircraft coloring books with the patients, providing encouragement and an opportunity to listen and learn from patient’s stories.  

“The visit impacted the patients in an extremely positive way,” said Konek. “The child life program coordinators at TCH actually commented and emphasized how excited the kids were to see us, and how much the door-to-door visits boosted their morale, especially the ones that had recently received treatment.”   

Throughout the visit, patients were made “Honorary Tigers” and even received flight suit nametapes and squadron morale gear. 

“The patients thoroughly appreciated getting their own “Honorary Tiger” patches, and they were excited about becoming a part of the 85 FTS Tiger Family,” said Blum. 

The 85th FTS exemplified the Air Force’s Core Value of “Service Before Self” in providing an opportunity to bring joy to patients and families whose lives have been significantly impacted by hardships. The “Wings for Warriors” event created an opportunity for personal growth and development in a setting outside of the training squadron through volunteer opportunities and positive interactions with the community to inspire perseverance in the next generation. 

“Learning about the goals and dreams of each of the patients through one-on-one interactions was incredibly impactful,” said Blum. “Hearing their stories and sharing tangible experiences with them helped showcase the courage and perseverance of each patient. We let them know we are fighting along with them. I will never forget this experience, and I will take these memories throughout the rest of my life.”