Three Physically Challenged Pilots Receive Their Wings At Oshkosh

By Jennifer Staretorp

As visitors of EAA's AirVenture wander among the hundreds of aircraft that have flown in for the event, they often do not give any thought to those who might not have the pleasure of being able to fly. "It's easy to take flying for granted," said Michael Goulian at the Able Flight Wings Ceremony at Oshkosh this afternoon.

For the three young aviators who were honored at the ceremony flying is no small task. What makes Mal Zakery, Jeremy Maddox and Jessica Cox unique is the physical disabilities that they face. This, however, has not stopped them from attaining their dream of becoming pilots. Able Flight's mission appropriately states that they are"Changing lives through the challenge and freedom of flight." The organization is aimed at offering people with disabilities the chance to fly. This is exactly what they did for the three young pilots. Through the generosity of other pilots and companies such as Cessna Aircraft, Jet Aviation, Bombardier and many others, Able Flight has been able to help these aviation enthusiasts attain their goals.

Jessica Cox

"Aviation is hope," said Miles O'Brien, a former CNN correspondent, at the ceremony recognizing the tremendous feat of the new pilots. "This shows that hope does indeed triumph," he continued, as he pinned Jeremy Maddox with wings symbolizing his accomplishments. Patty Wagstaff joined Michael Goulian and Miles O'Brien in recognizing the three inspirational aviators. Mal, Jeremy and Jessica were each recognized and awarded their wings by one of the three keynote speakers.

FMI: www.ableflight.org