Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
Keith McCord ReportingGabe Adams definitely started life with a disadvantage. He is from Brazil and he was born with no arms or legs. That was seven years ago. He didn't let that stop him.
Today, the 419th Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base made Gabe an honorary pilot. Complete with his own pilot's jumpsuit and helmet, the Kaysville elementary school 2nd grader climbed into the cockpit of an F-16. It was a dream come true for the little guy, who only found out the surprise yesterday at school.
Janelle Adams, Gabe's adoptive Mother: "Oh we didn't tell him. We've been working on this, so until the Lieutenant Colonel came to his school yesterday, and they brought him the flight suit with his name on it, he was just in shock."
Gabe and his classmates all toured the 419th Wing headquarters today. Everyone got to climb in a look at the planes, but Gabe took a ride, sitting the the backseat of the jet fighter as it was towed along the flight line.
It was a thrill for him and certainly for all his classmates.
Jackie Poll, Teacher, Kaysville Elementary: "We didn't want to honor him just because of his disabilities, but in the way he's overcome them. In the classroom he's treated just like any student; he just does amazing things with his limitations."
Gabe's teacher says he inspires everyone at the school.
So how was the plane ride?
Gabe Adams: "Good."
Pilot: "We learned all about the planes, didn't we? We told him about the cameras and how much fuel that's on them, got to learn lots of cool things."
Gabe was born with a condition called Hanhart Syndrome. Janelle Adams, his adoptive mother says he's overcome a lot of hardships, but he speaks well and gets around just like any other kid — nothing stops him! He's certainly an inspiration to all of us!
