JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
High school students from the Hampton Roads area got a taste of military life this week during the 2013 U.S. Air Force Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps Summer Leadership Program. More than 80 AFJROTC cadets participated in the weeklong program June 24-28.
With support from Service members across Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., the cadets were able to experience firsthand what it takes to be a member of the armed forces during a military shadow day June 25.
As part of the leadership program held each year by the Newport News Public School System, cadets woke up at 5 a.m. daily and endured an intense training environment consisting of drill practice, uniform and room inspections, athletic competitions and team-building exercises.
Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Kristopher Alden, Menchville High School's senior aerospace science instructor, hopes the cadets use the shadow-day experience to gain an appreciation for the things they learn daily in the classroom.
"It's all about the cadets seeing the overall big picture," said Alden. "We want them to see why they are learning the things they are learning, and how it can all impact their future career choices."
During the shadow day, cadets experienced military working dog demonstrations, explosive ordnance disposal team training, F-22A Raptors take-offs and leadership opportunities. They even tested their physical endurance on the confidence course at Fort Eustis.
"This program is a great way to expose cadets to active-duty Airmen living out the core values through their day-to-day mission," explained Alden. "It provides an opportunity outside of the classroom for the kids to grow and learn hands on."
One such cadet, Kenyon Strickland, believes his experience at the shadow day will help him make important future career decisions.
"It has really broadened my perspective on what Airmen really do," explained Strickland. "It was really cool to see the pride they all have in what they do every day, and they have given me a lot more to think about for my future."
Alden echoed Strickland's sentiments.
"We love the support that the Air Force and JBLE gives us," said Alden. "It's nice to know that they understand there is always room to invest in our future generations."
The cadets weren't the only ones who gained insights during the shadow day. The Airmen who volunteered enjoyed the opportunity to teach cadets what life and work is like in the Air Force.
"It was a lot of fun and a great opportunity to show them how important our mission really is," said Senior Master Sgt. Richard Corey, JBLE weather station superintendent. "You get a big sense of accomplishment from encouraging our possible future generation of Airmen, and seeing their faces light up when they learn about a career field they are interested in."
The program is offered during summer break for cadets. According to Alden, the cadets will be able to take what they learned and apply it to their lives at home and school.
"These cadets won't easily forget this experience," said Alden. "They learned lifelong lessons from the Airmen they shadowed and will talk about this for a very long time."