Ninth grader becomes cadet for a day in trip of a lifetime

It’s not often that a teenager gets to fly with parachuters, take a science class, and march in formation with Air Force Academy cadets.

One special ninth grader did all of that on Thursday, in the trip of a lifetime.

Mark Carnes traveled from his home state of Virginia to the Air Force Academy to become a cadet for a day.

“I just feel lucky every day. Every day, so fortunate,” said Carnes.

Carnes is a cancer survivor, and months ago, when the Make a Wish Foundation and Academy caught wind of his story, they intervened. They wanted this special teen to fulfill his biggest dream.

“I want to go here, I want to be a pilot with a major in aero engineering, and I want to fly the F-35 lightning two,” Carnes explained.

Cadets who help with the program say they’re not only inspired by his ambition, but his excitement.

“It’s very easy to take things for granted. Every little thing, whether it is marching or chemistry classes. We’ve realized how special we have it here — so at least for one day, we can celebrate what it means to be a cadet.”

Carnes also hopes to help others who want to pursue huge dreams, including his own: becoming a cadet once he graduates high school.

“I got here. You can do it too. it may be difficult but the road ahead is worth it,” Carnes added.