Thirteen-year-old Lochlan Brown, of Plainville, Massachusetts, received the wish of a lifetime this Fourth of July when he traveled more than 400 miles to experience the history of Gettysburg firsthand. Diagnosed with cancer, Lochlan was granted his dream trip through Make-A-Wish® Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia, in partnership with his home chapter, Make-A-Wish® Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
A passionate history buff, Lochlan has long been fascinated by the Civil War and the Battle of Gettysburg, which became a source of comfort and inspiration during his treatment. “During his time in the hospital, Lochlan and his mom would often read history together,” said Dana Antkowiak of Make-A-Wish. “It was a great distraction and something that helped him stay positive.”
Lochlan’s five-day visit included tours of historic battlefields, interactions with living historians, and full participation in the “Experience Living History” reenactment at the Daniel Lady Farm. There, he had the rare chance to become a Union soldier for the weekend, attend commander meetings, and learn firsthand what life was like for a Civil War soldier.
The highlight of the weekend came on Saturday, July 5, when Lochlan joined the cast of Biddle’s Brigade for a special reenactment at the Daniel Lady Farm. The event also included a musical moment with the U.S. Marine Band, during which Lochlan had the chance to conduct a patriotic song. A proclamation from the Mayor of Gettysburg capped off the day’s events.
“The Daniel Lady Farm is honored to play a small part in making Lochlan’s wish come true,” said Shaun Phiel of the Gettysburg Battlefield Preservation Association. “His enthusiasm for history is inspiring.”
Special thanks were extended to The Maryland Sutler, who outfitted Lochlan in full Union uniform for his reenactment experience.
Lochlan’s journey was made possible through the combined efforts of Make-A-Wish Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia and Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island, which together have granted more than 30,000 wishes for critically ill children.
For more information, visit wish.org/greaterpawv or massri.wish.org.