F-22 demo team inspires at children’s hospital

By Parrothead Jeff, on 19 August 2007

Maj. Paul Moga, the Air Force’s sole F-22 Raptor demonstration pilot, signs an autograph for La Rabida Children’s Hospital patient Maseeh Muhammad Aug. 15 during their visit in support of the Chicago Air and Water Show. (U.S. Air Force photo/Capt. Rob Lazaro)

“The staff and patients were very impressed with the generosity of spirit, kindness and warmth (the team) demonstrated,” said Gretchen Holmberg, hospital director of public relations. “They tied shoes, signed casts and high-fived with heart and enthusiasm.”

As the team left, they began planning a children’s hospital visit at their next air show performance in Toronto.

Another feel-good story for a day with much turmoil

I’ve met a whole lot of demo team guys from the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds to the individual demo team pilots for the F-16 and F-15. They’re all incredibly professional and do their services proud. Not many people know about this side of their jobs, but they really enjoy bringing joy to those in the most need of it