Aviano children become warriors for a day

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Julius V. Delos Reyes
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Kid-warriors stepped into their parents combat boots for a glimpse of what their parents go through prior to and during their deployment.

What used to be an Army sustained airborne training site was converted to a big playground as approximately 70 Aviano children went through a deployment line at the Personnel Alert Holding Area April 29.

"It is important for the children to come out here and get a hands-on feel for what their parents are doing or will be doing downrange," said Master Sgt. Eric Clark, 603rd ACS Quality Assurance NCO in charge. "That way, they can cope better and understand the process of their parents' deployment."

Just like their moms and dads, the children received an intelligence brief about their deployment as well as their mission. They were issued gas masks and learned how to wear the protective gear. Volunteers were on hand to provide camouflage face paint to the children, and Meals-Ready-To-Eat were available for the children to try.

Other stations included field communication gear, a Humvee, a five-ton truck, a fork lift, fire department personnel, the Airmen and Family Readiness Center as well as emergency medical services.

"This event is about the kids and having them experience a good time," said Kris Kessler, Aviano Elementary School guidance counselor. "It is to thank them for allowing their parents to deploy, and that's what we tell them. It is just a big thank you from the base and that's how they look at it. This event makes them feel special."

In addition, this type of event also gives them an idea of what is involved when their parents deploy as well as future jobs in the Air Force, Ms. Kessler said.

"I think this is fantastic," she said. "I am just thankful that they feel this is an integral part of their mission here."

Approximately 25 volunteers from the 31st Medical Group, the fire department, the AFRC and the 31st Logistics Readiness Squadron provided their time and effort during the event. The event was hosted by the Aviano Top III and the 603rd ACS.

"We really appreciate all the volunteers who came here to help us out," Sergeant Clark said. "I myself am a parent. When I was deployed, I know my child went through it and she had a great time. I really appreciated that."