Spreading the word Published March 20, 2007 By Master Sgt. Stan Coleman 94th Airlift Wing Public DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- During the 94th Airlift Wing's Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Week, members of the Georgia National Guard, Air Force Reserve and active duty Air Force demonstrated the total force concept through C-130 orientation flights, aircraft displays and conversations with high schoolers regarding opportunities in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve. Active duty Air Force and Air Force Reserve recruiters were there with gifts, gadgets and information regarding military service in the aerospace career field. JROTC cadets received brochures, completed interest cards, competed against the flight simulators, and took home 'goodie bags' with freebies to reinforce the memories of military opportunities that can be obtained through their neighborhood recruiters. "I enjoy interacting with young men and women," said Master Sgt. Tony Crittle, recruiter with the 331st Recruiting Squadron, Maxwell/Gunter Air Force Base, Ala. "I'm motivated by the fact that they are our future. This event provides the opportunity for many of us to share information with our future leaders." The JROTC week provided a fun atmosphere with interjections of history and experience shared by retired and active duty senior leaders and enlisted. Retired Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Gerard Murray spoke to Army and Air Force JROTC cadets on during JROTC Week. "This event provides a great opportunity to motivate our young kids regarding knowledge of the Air Force and defense of our nation. Seeing our military members in action dispels negative myths and helps our JROTC cadets understand the importance of citizenship," he said. Events like this give our young people direction as to what they want to do with their life--whether they pursue a tech school or college," said Tech. Sgt. Herman Woodard, Air Force Reserve recruiter. "The Air Force Reserve gives our young a positive start with enhanced basic life skills and direction for their future. An added benefit is the chance to serve their country on a part-time basis." "The Air Force gets kids going in a career instead of having 'just-a-job,'" said Senior Master Sgt. Bryan Lee, 94th Airlift Wing senior recruiter. "Our largest age group is 25-35 years old. Usually within that time period of a young adult's life, he is ready for something more than just another nine-to-five job." "Our active duty, Air National Guard and Reserve recruiters are doing a great job," said Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley to an audience of JROTC cadets, reservists, air reserve technicians, recruiters and civilians during JROTC week at Dobbins. "It's important young people do the right things now in preparation for their future. That includes avoiding debt and not succumbing to peer pressure in making choices that lead down the wrong path. If you want to join our great Air Force, it will be there for you if prepare yourselves."
