Dad With ALS Gets Up From Wheelchair And Congratulates Son At Air Force Graduation

June 16, 2018

Christy and Frankie Sanchez drove eight hours from their home in El Paso, Texas, to see their son, Frankie Jr., graduate from Air Force basic training in San Antonio.

Credit: Christy Thomas Sanchez

Frankie, 55, suffers from ALS and requires a breathing machine and a power wheelchair to get around. As a retired Army veteran himself who served for over 22 years, he was determined to get out of his wheelchair and be the one to "tap out" his son.

Credit: Christy Thomas Sanchez

After graduation, Airmen are required to stand at parade rest until touched by a family member.

"I decided when it was time to tap my son out that I wanted to get out of my power wheelchair and take a few steps and walk to my son. I was overwhelmed with pride for my country, for my son," he said.

Watch the video below.