Seven-year-old Michael Castillo, accompanied by several family members, toured Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz., as an honorary A-10 pilot and participant in the Pilot for a Day program. This initiative gives local children with illnesses an enjoyable day completely devoted to them and their interest in aviation. Michael received his very own personalized flightsuit. Escorted by Capt. Aaron Celusta, an A-10 flier assigned to the 357th Fighter Squadron, Michael got a pilot briefing and toured the squadron. He then visited the base fire department and rode in a fire truck. Next, he checked out A-10 and HC-130 static displays, and then spent time with the base’s combat search and rescue unit. He also flew in an A-10 simulator, went up in the air traffic control tower, and saw a military working dog demonstration during his June 24 visit. (Davis-Monthan report by A1C Jerilyn Quintanilla)
Earlier this week, the People’s Republic of China confirmed it is halting its nuclear arms control talks with the U.S., in retaliation for the U.S. continuing to sell arms to Taiwan. The move reinforces a “pattern of behavior” from Beijing, experts say.