336th FS aircrew help child's dreams come true

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Aubrey White
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  The newest member of Team Seymour isn't what most would call a typical Airman. In fact, he doesn't wear a uniform, he doesn't work with aircraft in any circumstance and isn't old enough to drive a car, let alone join the military. However, members of the 336th Fighter Squadron recently hosted this guest and his family in an effort to make his dream of becoming an Air Force fighter pilot a reality.

Christopher Holich, a 9-year-old living with mitochondrial myopathy complex IV deficiency, has always envisioned himself following in the footsteps of his grandfather by becoming an Air Force pilot.

According to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the main symptoms of mitochondrial myopathy are muscle weakness and shrinking, exercise intolerance, the potential for developmental delays and organ failure. In Christopher's case, the disease has caused his kidneys to fail.

Although he has remained positive since his diagnosis; Christopher told his mother he didn't believe he would ever get the chance to fulfill his dream. What he didn't know was several members of the 336th FS had already planned his "pilot for a day" tour.

"I held news of the trip from Christopher until a few days before the visit but was too anxious to keep it secret until the day of his tour," said Alison Holich, Christopher's mother. "Once I finally told him and his siblings, they were so excited they couldn't sleep."

Christopher and his family were invited to experience what various Airmen do to carry out the base's flying mission.

"I felt honored to be asked to help plan an event of this nature," said Capt. Ryan Stec, 336th FS pilot. "Being given that responsibility was both one of the most humbling and rewarding experiences I've ever had."

The day began with Christopher being fitted for a flight suit by the 336th FS life support unit, which he wore throughout the remainder of his trip.

The Holichs not only visited the 336th FS, they toured an F-15E Strike Eagle, saw a weapons load demonstration and toured the air traffic control tower. Christopher also had the chance to "fly" in the flight simulator.

"All of the Airmen we came in contact with treated us with such generosity from the moment Lt. Col. James Howard [336th FS commander] called to inform me of what the squadron planned for my family, until the last minute we spent on base," Alison said as tears ran down her face. "The kindness which came from everyone at the 336th FS was absolutely amazing. The feeling of seeing my son smiling from cheek to cheek throughout the entire day was indescribable. I have never seen him so happy before; they made his dream come true."

At the end of the tour, both Christopher and his sister expressed to their mother how encouraged they are to join the Air Force and serve their country one day.

"My favorite part was trying out the flight simulator because, I want to really fly a plane one day," Christopher said. "Overall, it was an amazing day."

Christopher inspired every Airman he came in contact with that day. He remained upbeat and provided an example of making the best of whatever situation you face.

"My experience with Christopher helped to remind me that I'm fortunate enough to have had the time to accomplish my dream of being a part of the world's greatest Air Force," said Capt. Beth McNerney, 336th FS weapon systems officer. "Live every day to the fullest and do something toward accomplishing your goals, even if it's just a small step towards reaching them."