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.

army veteran als stands for son graduation
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.

army veteran als stands for son graduation
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.

Click Here For The Most Popular On Sunny Skyz

feel good videoBoy With Down Syndrome Nails The Whitney Houston Challenge, And The Crowd Goes Wild

feel good storiesThe Funniest Wildlife Photos Of 2025 Are Here — And They’re Hilarious

feel good storiesThis 30-Year-Old’s Christmas Gift To His Mom Is Going Viral

feel good storiesPolice 'Arrest' A Lost Cat For 'Assault' — And She Has No Regrets

feel good storiesPolice Officer’s Simple Question Leads To An Unforgettable Christmas Moment

feel good storiesFumbles, Fails, And Funny Flags: The NFL’s Most Hilarious Game Day Moments

feel good videoHe Asked For Help Wrapping A Christmas Present — Then Surprised Her With A Life-Changing Gift

feel good videoThe Hug That Went Viral On Facebook

feel good videoYou Have To See This 'Piggy Train' Trotting Through The Snow

feel good videoShe’s Been Helping Hungry Children For Years — This Christmas, Someone Helped Her

feel good videoThis Teacher Found A Simple Way To Make Every Student Feel Loved

Chris Filippou 12:17 PM (3 minutes ago) to me