Despite illness, wheelchair-bound veteran stands for son’s basic training graduation

By

Rachel Rakoff

For the first time in Air Force Basic Military Training, Airmen march in integrated Heritage Flights during the Air Force Basic Training Graduation Parade July 17 at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. The Heritage flights, named after enlisted members in Air Force history, are part of a new initiative to completely gender integrate all facets of Air Force Basic Training and instill honor, as well as a deep understanding of the core values and appreciation for Airmen who paved the way for today’s Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Joshua Rodriguez) (released)

Army veteran Frankie Sanchez Sr. gave his son a hug to celebrate the younger Sanchez’s graduation from Air Force basic military training.

But this was no ordinary hug.

After 23 years in the Army, Sanchez was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, according to an article by Task and Purpose. Although the condition, which affects the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement, had left Sanchez confined to a wheelchair, Sanchez rose from his seat to tap his son out of attention.
 
Sanchez’s son graduated May 28 from Air Force basic training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Having been in the emergency room following a respiratory issue the day prior, Sanchez was concerned he would miss the graduation ceremony entirely. 

The embrace was a highly emotional moment, according to Task and Purpose.

“It was the most beautiful and memorable event I’ve ever witnessed in my life,” Sanchez’s wife, Christy, wrote on Facebook. “I will never forget it as long as I live.”

Due to the incurable disease’s rapid progression, the family has struggled with bills. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family offset the cost.

About 

Rachel Rakoff