"Empowering veterans, one flight at a time."
"Empowering veterans, one flight at a time."
Embedded Files
The mission of Skyriders Charitable Trust is to provide life-changing support to veterans with PTSD by offering an exposure therapy program that helps them confront and overcome their trauma. Our goal is to empower veterans to live fulfilling lives by providing them with the tools they need to manage their symptoms and move forward with confidence. We are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those who have served our country, and to ensuring that they receive the care and support they deserve.
Therapeutic Helicopter Rides for Veterans
Therapeutic Helicopter Rides for Veterans
Helicopter rides can be therapeutic for veterans with PTSD through a type of therapy called exposure therapy. Exposure therapy is a form of treatment that involves gradually exposing an individual to the source of their fear or trauma in a controlled and safe environment.
An exposure therapy program for veterans using helicopter rides can be beneficial in several ways. Exposure therapy is a proven method for treating PTSD, and the use of helicopter rides as a controlled and safe environment for exposure can be particularly effective for veterans who experienced traumatic events while in military aircraft. Here are some potential benefits of an exposure therapy program using helicopter rides:
Reduced anxiety and fear: Exposure therapy aims to reduce the anxiety and fear associated with PTSD triggers by gradually exposing the individual to them in a safe environment. Helicopter rides can provide a controlled and safe environment for veterans to confront their triggers, leading to a reduction in anxiety and fear over time.
Increased emotional regulation: PTSD can cause individuals to have difficulty regulating their emotions, leading to mood swings, irritability, and other symptoms. Exposure therapy, including helicopter rides, can help individuals learn how to manage their emotions and respond to triggers in a more adaptive way.
Improved quality of life: PTSD can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life, affecting their relationships, work, and daily functioning. An exposure therapy program using helicopter rides can help individuals to regain control over their lives and reduce the impact of PTSD on their daily functioning.
Enhanced sense of empowerment: The experience of flying in a helicopter can be exhilarating and provide a sense of mastery and control over their environment. For veterans who may feel helpless or out of control due to their PTSD symptoms, this can be particularly empowering and help to improve their self-esteem.
Increased engagement in treatment: Some veterans may be resistant to traditional forms of therapy or medication for PTSD. An exposure therapy program using helicopter rides can be an engaging and unique form of treatment that may increase the veteran's willingness to participate in therapy and improve their overall outcomes.
Overall, an exposure therapy program using helicopter rides can be a beneficial form of treatment for veterans with PTSD.
Skyriders Charitable Trust, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting veterans with PTSD, has announced the acquisition of a new 2-person gyrocopter from an Australian company. The gyrocopter will be a key component of Skyriders' exposure therapy program, which helps veterans confront and overcome their trauma through aviation experiences. With the addition of the gyrocopter, Skyriders will be able to offer even more opportunities for veterans to participate in this life-changing program. The organization is thrilled to have this new tool at their disposal and is eager to continue making a positive difference in the lives of those who have served our country.
Improving Quality of Life, One Veteran at a Time
Improving Quality of Life, One Veteran at a Time
Flying in a helicopter can improve the quality of life in several ways, including:
Sense of adventure: Flying in a helicopter can provide a sense of adventure and excitement that is hard to replicate in other forms of transportation. The bird's eye view and the sensation of hovering and flying can be exhilarating.
Unique perspective: Flying in a helicopter can offer a unique perspective of the world, providing views that are not accessible by ground transportation. The ability to see landscapes, cityscapes, and natural beauty from a new perspective can be awe-inspiring and enriching.
Access to remote locations: Helicopters can provide access to remote locations that may be difficult or impossible to reach by other means of transportation. This can open up new opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Enhanced sense of community: Helicopter rides can be a social activity, providing an opportunity to share the experience with others and create memories together. This can help to strengthen relationships and provide a sense of community and belonging.
Overall, flying in a helicopter can be a unique and exciting experience that can improve one's quality of life in many ways.
However, it is important to always fly safely and responsibly, following all regulations and guidelines for helicopter flights.
Contact us at
Contact us at
Info@Skyriders.net
Info@Skyriders.net
Richard Gragert is a highly decorated Vietnam veteran who served as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army. He was born and raised in Illinois, and enlisted in the Army shortly after graduating from high school. Richard served in Vietnam, flying as a helicopter scout in combat missions throughout the country.
During his time in the military, Richard received numerous awards and commendations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star, and 2 Purple Hearts.
Richard Gragert was shot down four times during his time as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. On one occasion, he lost his entire crew in the crash. These traumatic experiences, along with other combat-related incidents, contributed to Richard's development of PTSD, which he struggled with for many years after leaving the military.
After leaving the military, Richard moved to Kentucky and began a career in aviation. He spent over 30 years operating a helicopter leasing service.
In addition to his military and aviation careers, Richard is a dedicated community leader and philanthropist. He is actively involved in several veteran-focused organizations and charities, and works tirelessly to support the men and women who have served our country.
Richard's unwavering dedication to his country and his community has made him a respected and admired figure in Kentucky and beyond. His service and sacrifice will always be remembered and honored by those whose lives he has touched.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse