Monthly Update - July 2022
“Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.” — John Wooden
Hello Everyone,

We hope that this July update finds everyone enjoying the wonderful weather and exploring the many activities our state has to offer.  

Though there’s been a handful of cancelations due to winds and afternoon thunderstorms, our four Mile High Flight Phase 2 students continue to make steady progress. We’ve been getting weekly progress reports from our flight instructors, who have high praise for our student’s motivation and hard work. We’ll keep you posted on their progress.

As we celebrate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 we share a recent, brief update from former MHF solo student, now Marine V-22 pilot, Captain Shay Farrell.  

“Dear MHF “Crew”, I'm deploying overseas tomorrow! Just wanted to give you a heads up, I’ll be sending you some cool pictures for the program when I get back”.

Please join us in keeping Shay in your prayers for a safe return.

Our signature, final Phase 1 event of the year, the Glider Orientation Flight at Owl Canyon Glider Port was an unforgettable experience. Our gratitude for the continued support of the Owl Canyon family is almost impossible to express. Though it may sound cliche’, we simply could not provide our students with the opportunities we’re able to provide, were it not for the continued generosity of Owl Canyon and other community sponsors!
Honoring the Past & Inspiring the Future
Tuskegee Airmen Member Alexander Jefferson Dies At The...

Tuskegee Airmen member Alexander Jefferson passed away at the age of 100, according to the Detroit Free Press. Lt. Col. Jefferson was featured in the documentary Through the Flak: War Stories of the Tuskegee Airmen.

Read more
www.blackenterprise.com
WF-22 Raptor Fighter Pilot Maj. Loco Lopez

Major Paul Loco Lopez flies the F-22 Raptor fighter jet for a living. The F-22 Raptor is an American air dominant fire power. The cream of the crop. This aircraft is capable of doing jaw dropping maneuvers, and it is an active combat aircraft. Capable of speeds over 1,400 miles per hour. Equipped with 2 Pratt & Whitney engines (35,000 pounds of thrust in each), the F-22 raptor will cover a 20-mile radius in only 60 seconds.

In the video, he talks about his own journey in becoming an Air force fighter pilot, and some of the steps you can take to fly in the United States Air force.
On the Move
Hakeem Khaleel

MHF student Hakeem Khaleel is nearing completion of the rigorous USAF Aim High Flight Academy program, held this year on the campus of Kanas State University. You may recall that Hakeem earned a scholarship last year with Aim High and completed his first solo. So outstanding was his performance, they invited him back to complete a much more intensive course and earn his Private Pilot License! Weather permitting, he’ll complete his training by the end of the month. Hakeem writes:
 
Hello MHF “Crew”
 
I just wanted to thank all of the MHF team for their continuous support. As a first-generation pilot it has been a blessing to have joined the MHF. I would have never learned of or won the Aim High scholarship. Even though I graduated from the program a year ago, I still receive a lot of mentorship and scholarship assistance. I absolutely can’t wait to finish my pilot training and move on with my career, so I can give back and help future MHF students. 
 
Thank you, 
Hakeem Khaleel
Captain Mark Reese

All eyes are on former MHF student, Captain Mark Reese. The process of earning the title of “Captain” at a major regional airline is both lengthy and challenging. Captain Reese just sent us this picture, on the final leg of his journey to his first command. Mark is pictured here, after successful completion of his IOE, (Initial Operating Experience) evaluation. Congratulations, Captain!
What People are Saying about Us
One of Our Students Remarked:
“I learned a lot about different careers in aviation and I had a great time at all of the field trips. I especially enjoyed getting to fly in a glider and a powered plane. It's hard work, but the rewards are completely worth it. I got to fly a plane over downtown Denver! I already knew I wanted to be a pilot, and the Mile High Flight Program is helping me make my dream a reality.”
His Parent Added:
“I would highly recommend the Mile High Flight Program for any young people who are interested in aviation and are willing to put forth the effort to achieve their goals. The field trips were fun and informative for our whole family. We are all looking forward to participating again next year!”
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Mile High Flight Program | www.milehighflight.org