A boy who invited his party guests to donate money to charity instead of giving him gifts on his birthday received a special birthday present from the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service – a chance to be a part of the Air Operations crew for a day.
Trey Milgate turned 11 on 11 November, 2011, – or 11/11/11 – and to mark the occasion and the auspicious date, threw a party for 80 of his friends. But in lieu of presents, he asked them to donate to the Stay Focused diving charity for teens and young adults.
As a result of his party, Trey, who is a keen diver, was able to present a cheque for $1,350 to ‘Stay Focused’ in December.
Police Commissioner David Baines, who was present when Trey delivered his cheque, said he was so impressed with Trey’s selflessness that he invited him to visit the Air Operations Unit, which runs the police helicopter.
Trey visited the Air Operations Unit on Wednesday, 18 January, where he was presented with his own Air Operations shirt before being briefed by the crew. He then hopped into the pilot’s seat and took control – on the ground, not in the air.
“I was really excited to see the helicopter and learn all about what the pilots do when they are flying,” said Trey. “I’m pleased that the police have invited us here because of what I did for the charity. I chose ‘Stay Focused’ because I decided to donate to a charity that involved scuba diving.”
Commissioner Baines described Trey as a “remarkable young man and a real credit to his family and his community”.
“He forfeited his birthday presents to ensure that those less fortunate than himself have an opportunity to enjoy a sport that he loves – diving. This is our way of making sure that we made his birthday extra special by arranging a visit to see the helicopter and meet the crew. He had a great time and, although he didn’t fly, he very quickly mastered some of the controls.
“Who knows, his day as an Air Operations recruit might just persuade him that he has a future in the RCIPS,” Mr. Baines said.
Trey was accompanied by his older brother, Drew, and his younger sister, Charli.
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