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17 with another overflight aircraft (N671EA, a TBM8 about to leave his airspace) to use as a relay for when the Skyhawk dropped below radar and radio coverage. Boulds asked that they remain on the frequency to ensure that N9181P landed safely and passed along the facility phone number to the student pilot. Additionally, SKW7410, en route from Detroit to Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., was on the frequency during the event. Jack Forrest, the captain of SKW7410, called ZMP FacRep Tony Walsh the next day and also wrote a note. "About halfway through the flight, we were in contact with Minneapolis Center. Seemed to be a relatively quiet day for them," Forrest wrote. "Halfway through briefing our approach into CIU, we hear the controller begin to give assistance to what seemed to be a low-time student pilot. We couldn't hear her, however it was clear she was having trouble. The controller did an AMAZING job at calming her down, walking her through what seemed to be an approach with strong winds/gusts, and low ceilings, as well as giving her multiple options for alternate airports. "How he helped her keep the aircraft under control was spot on. Suggesting flap settings/speeds for her aircraft, and other great pointers. From what I know, she eventually landed safely somewhere. A big kudos to that controller for keeping his cool, and helping out the pilot." Shane Boulds and Justin Dokken performed like well-trained, confident, seasoned veterans, despite being only partially certified when they assisted N9181P. Shane and Justin's incredible teamwork, combined with Shane's years of flying experience, undoubtedly helped prevent an almost certain tragedy. While some might say their actions on that fateful day were nothing short of heroic, they'll simply tell you that they were just doing the job they've been trained to do – ensure the safety of the NAS. » Great Lakes Regional Vice President Drew MacQueen:

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