336th RCS hosts influencer orientation at Moody AFB

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Brad Barth
  • 336th Recruiting Squadron
Moody Air Force Base, Ga. --  Nine influencers throughout the 336th Recruiting Squadron's 75,000 square-mile zone were introduced to Air Force Special Operations, and Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) career fields here April 23 to 24.

Educational leaders, media personalities, and gym owners from three states toured Moody to learn more about the Air Force's focus on special operations and STEM, and how these disciplines fit into the Air Force mission. Inspiring excellence in STEM is an enduring requirement for the Air Force as all Air Force missions require Airmen to be innovative and have technical insight.

The tour participants received a series of briefings and hands-on interaction with various units and personnel assigned to Moody.

"This tour is possible solely due to the support of the leadership and personnel of Moody," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. John Deresky, 336th Recruiting Squadron commander. "Without their support, there is no way we could put a personal touch on the current focus of Air Force Recruiting."

Throughout the orientation, the influencers were able to enjoy interactive experiences that brought the base's mission to life. The influencers took a comprehensive look into the 820th Base Defense Group by touring their Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) village training area, firearms simulator and HMMWV Egress Assistance Trainer.
After witnessing potential special operations Airmen complete a demanding physical abilities and stamina test, the influencers toured the 38th Rescue Squadron, which allowed them to understand the need for these highly trained Airmen.

Throughout the tour, Airmen assigned to each unit were on hand to answer any questions and provide valuable insight.

"As we all seemed to concur, the personnel with whom we came into contact with represented a very high level of professionalism, knowledge and enthusiasm, and gave us a very clear picture of the excellence that one can expect from the U.S. Air Force," said Dr. Charles Backes, professor of Adult and Career Education at Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Ga.

At the conclusion of the orientation, all influencers agreed the tour opened their eyes to the importance of Special Operations Airmen and STEM disciplines in the Air Force. They also pledged their support to assist their local recruiters' efforts in the future.

"I used to view the military as just a good option for high school graduates, but now I see why I must encourage our best and brightest students to consider the Air Force as an option," said Raymond James, a math instructor at the Engineering and Math Institute of Technology at Forest High School in Ocala, Fla.