93-year-old veteran, hospice patient fulfills dream of going stunt flying

MORRISTOWN, Tenn. (WVLT/Gray News) - A 93-year-old Army veteran and hospice patient is proving you are never too old to take to the skies.

On Thursday morning, Thomas Judge fulfilled a lifelong dream by participating in a stunt flight.

Judge’s flight was made possible through Caris Healthcare and its signature program “The Three Most Important Things.” The initiative focuses on discovering the personal preferences, wishes and bucket list goals of hospice patients and working to honor them whenever possible.

When asked about his biggest wishes, two of Judge’s priorities stood out clearly: his lifelong passion for airplanes and a deep desire to experience the thrills of stunt flying.

Determined to give the veteran an unforgettable experience, Judge’s hospice care team partnered with local pilot Eric Backsheider to turn that ambition into reality.

The flight took off from Morristown Airport, giving Judge an exhilarating bird’s-eye view of East Tennessee as Backsheider performed thrilling acrobatic maneuvers.

Caregivers said the special morning was a poignant reminder of the power of bringing joy, adventure and dignity to patients and their families while celebrating a lifetime of service and spirit.