Local boy becomes pilot for a day

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jose L. Leon and Airman 1st Class Laura L. Valentine
  • 22 Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Spring is here and many children are headed outdoors for fun in the sun. For 4-year-old Adam Andrulis, a boy from Wichita, Kan., spring also includes becoming an honorary pilot and member of the 344th Air Refueling Squadron.

Adam, who was diagnosed with Burkitt's lymphoma, was chosen for the Pilot for a Day program through a partnership with Wesley Medical Center, Wichita, Kan.

The program gives terminally-ill children the chance to visit Air Force bases, experience aspects of the base and have a fun-filled day.

"This day is all about Adam," said 1st Lt. Austin Bartlett, 344th ARS squadron standards and evaluation liaison and Adam's program coordinator.

The 344th ARS "Ravens" hosted Adam, his mother and father, foster mother and grandparents, and his younger brother.

In preparation for his mission as a pilot, Adam was given a flight suit, flight cap, and to round out the outfit, a pair of sunglasses before receiving a mission brief. The day included flying the KC-135 Stratotanker simulator, operating the Boom Operator Weapons System Trainer, touring a KC-135, riding in a fire truck and testing the fire hoses.

"We've had a great time," said Andrea Dixon, Adam's foster mother. "Today allowed him to be a kid, which he doesn't always get to be."

Adam's favorite activity for the day was riding in the fire truck and spraying the fire hose.

When all was said and done there was a pizza party hosted by the 344th ARS. Lt. Col. Bill Stowe, 344th ARS commander, presented Adam with a 344th ARS coin and honorary patches. Representatives from the other flying squadrons also visited and gave mementos.

As the day ended, the 344th ARS said goodbye to the newest member of the McConnell family. Adam's family left with a greater understanding of the mission of the 22nd ARW and smiles on their faces.

"It's been a great experience," said Dixon. "It allowed him to enjoy himself and be seen as the hero that he is."