333rd AMU shows support for child living with cancer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Aubrey Robinson
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  A typical day in an F-15E Strike Eagle maintainer's life includes generating multiple aircraft in support of their base's mission. U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 333rd Aircraft Maintenance Unit went farther on one particular day to show their support for a mission completely out of their norm.

The Airmen placed the name of Dyrk Burcie, a 4-year old living with a life-threatening form of cancer, on an F-15E Strike Eagle in support of his campaign, DyrkStrong.

On March 8, 2011, Dyrk's parents were bathing him and felt an evident mass on his abdomen, which was later diagnosed as pediatric liver cancer. Over the next few days, Dyrk had a liver biopsy performed and received news that the cancer had spread to both of his lungs.

Despite the 4 year-old's circumstance, his family has elected to stop treatment to make the most of their remaining time with him. People all around the world have come together in full force in order to show their love and support.

"We know the family is facing a tough struggle," said 1st Lt. James Guthrie, 333rd Aircraft Maintenance Unit officer in charge. "This story has greatly moved me because I have kids of my own."

After learning of Dyrk's story and seeing photos of his name being spelled out with several objects Guthrie had the idea of putting Dyrk's name of the side of an aircraft.

"We do a lot (as members of the military) and the American people give a lot back to us," Guthrie said. "This was a cool opportunity to give back to a little boy who has been incredibly strong."

Crew chiefs and a weapons load crew assigned to the 333rd AMU came together to bring Guthrie's idea to life by spending multiple hours cleaning and loading an F-15E with static bombs and missiles. The end result was an aircraft mocked up in full battle ensemble.

"There was no hesitation when other shops were asked to help," Guthrie said. "We all appreciate (Dyrk's) bravery."

Dyrk's mother, Shelley Burcie showed appreciation for the generosity of people that have never met her family.

"I hope that this helps to give you a glimpse at our little Dyrk's fight for survival as well as how amazing and special he is," Shelley said.

For more information about Dyrk and his campaign, visit www.dyrkstrong.org.