Hailey Macleod, 18, has been battling a rare form of cancer since 2025, enduring medical treatments while continuing her studies online at Arizona State University toward her goal of becoming a pilot. On September 11, she got to experience that dream, at least for a day.
Make-A-Wish Greater Los Angeles coordinated with the 412th Test Wing at Edwards Air Force Base in California to arrange the experience. Macleod, who grew up in the Antelope Valley near the base, spent the day undergoing pilot training.
She received a personalized flight suit decorated with unit patches from across the 412th Test Wing, tested her skills in a high-tech flight simulator, and climbed into the cockpit of an F-16 Fighting Falcon. On the ground, Brig. Gen. Mark Massaro, commander of the Air Force Test Center, promoted her to the honorary rank of captain. She also received a commander's coin from Col. Daniel Fredberg, deputy commander of the 412th, and toured some of the base's landmarks.