MONTEREY, Calif. — The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds visited Ohana, a mental health facility for children, teens, and young adults, as part of their attendance at the California International Airshow in Salinas. During the visit, Lt. Col. Tyler Keener and three team members shared messages of teamwork, perseverance, and overcoming challenges with the young patients.
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"We exist to inspire the future. It doesn't really matter where you begin; the future is always there for you. We show what it looks like to work together as a team to pursue excellence and how that can eventually bear fruit. And we hope these kids will be inspired," Keener stated.
The young audience responded positively to the Thunderbirds' message. One patient expressed, "Heck yes I was, I was so inspired. My favorite part was them sharing their experiences." The Thunderbirds shared personal stories, struggles, and insights, including remarks from Staff Sgt. Sebastian Romawac, who said, "I feel the only 'L' that I'll accept is a lesson, not a loss."
Therapists at Ohana highlighted the significance of their message, emphasizing that individuals do not have to face life's challenges alone. Patients echoed this sentiment, with one noting, "You can't do it alone. You need a team," while another remarked on the importance of viewing setbacks as lessons rather than failures.
Although the Thunderbirds have attended the California International Airshow many times, this marked their inaugural visit to Ohana. The facility's director, Emily Grey, described the experience as exceeding her expectations. "The Thunderbirds coming here—the elite pilot and the whole crew—and talking about how they persevere through challenges... that was just magic," Grey said.
The visit served as an encouraging moment for the young patients, reinforcing the themes of teamwork and resilience as they navigate their own challenges.