Liam U. knew something special was coming, but he didn’t expect the Montana National Guard to arrive at his Kalispell home in a convoy of military vehicles.
The surprise – coordinated by Logan Health, the Montana National Guard, and Scouting America, Montana Council – began with a Humvee ride to the Montana Army National Guard Armory. There, the 13-year-old was named an Honorary Pilot before taking a flight over northwest Montana aboard a CH-47 Chinook helicopter.
Last year, Liam was diagnosed with an aggressive form of bone cancer after experiencing pain in his right shoulder and upper back. His treatment began immediately with chemotherapy and was followed by a surgery to remove his shoulder blade. Despite those efforts, the cancer spread to his liver and spine.
“He’s always taken it without complaint,” said Jerrid U., Liam’s father. “God gave him that strength.”
Nurses at Logan Health noticed Liam’s interest in helicopters, his appreciation for the American flag, and his love of country. When it became apparent that his health would prevent him from touring Hawaii through Make-A-Wish America, Liam’s nurses were able to use their connection with the Montana National Guard to arrange the special experience.
There was just one challenge.
The National Guard can only host certain organized youth groups aboard its aircraft, and Liam wasn’t connected with one of those organizations.
Enter Scouting.
In a whirlwind effort spearheaded by Keri Barr – an active Scouter in the Northwest District – Montana Council registered Liam as a Lone Scout and coordinated the event with local troops.
Thanks to an anonymous donor who covered Liam’s registration fee, along with the hustle by Barr and the response by local units, everything came together in a matter of days.
“It wasn’t about us,” said Barr. “It was about supporting Liam the way that Scouts do.”
Scouts from Troop 1933, Kalispell, welcomed Liam into Scouting by presenting him with a neckerchief. They – along with family, Logan Health medical staff, and Scouts from Troop 1901B, 1901G, 1923 (Bigfork), and 1042 (Columbia Falls) – joined Liam on his flight.
“It was definitely an awesome day,” said Jerrid. “You could tell he was enjoying it. He was excited for everything, every step – you could just see it in his body. I think he could hardly believe it was actually happening.”
