Never Give Up on Your Dream

Audio of this article is brought to you by the Air & Space Forces Association, honoring and supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Find out more at afa.org

First Lt. Ryan McGuire became the first amputee to complete Air Force pilot training. “This is probably the best day of my life,” said McGuire on the day of his graduation last week from specialized undergraduate pilot training at Laughlin AFB, Tex. “I hope this shows people to never give up on their dream,” he added. “You have to keep your goals in mind and have faith in yourself.” McGuire is moving on to C-17 training at Altus AFB, Okla., and then to McChord AFB, Wash., where he will be stationed. A 2008 Air Force Academy graduate, McGuire has wanted to fly since early childhood. He lost his lower right leg below the knee due to a boating accident in September 2009. The Air Force allowed him to remain on active duty and later informed him that he could resume his pilot training. On May 20, he achieved his goal, earning his pilot wings. (Laughlin report by SrA. Scott Saldukas)

Audio of this article is brought to you by the Air & Space Forces Association, honoring and supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Find out more at afa.org