Academy cadets receive mentorship during visit

  • Published
  • By Airman Greg Nash
  • 23d Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Team Moody participated in a sponsorship that allowed visiting U.S. Air Force Academy cadets an opportunity to gain perspective of what the Air Force does during an Operational Air Force tour, here.

During this year's visit, U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet Squadron Stalag 17 was offered a chance to experience Moody from June 2 until June 17.

Cadets had the opportunity to experience canine demonstrations, flight simulators and ride in a HC-130J Combat King II. To kick off their tour, they learned about what different base organizations do to contribute to the mission and how to conduct themselves and lead once they commission.

"The best way to be a leader is to instill the culture of discipline," said Col. Chad Frank, 23d Wing commander, during a mission briefing. "Discipline levels the playing field when it comes to experience. If you stress the importance of discipline and professionalism, you'll always be better than everyone else and it will be noticeable. Always hold that standard."

Wing leadership also encouraged the cadets to accept and value mentorship from the senior NCO perspective.

"The responsibility of senior NCOs is to advise and mentor CGOs [Company-Grade Officers,]" said Chief Master Sgt. David Kelch, 23d Wing command chief. "Take advantage of their knowledge because the vast majority of times, they are trying to set you up for success."

Cadets expressed their improved understanding of the Air Force culture by seeing various jobs firsthand in action.

"My favorite part of the visit would have to be seeing the 81st [Fighter Squadron] and the helicopters," said Cadet Logan Long. "It's important to know what you're really getting into. I had a lot of unanswered questions but now I feel at ease and I am fortunate to visit the base."

"So far, this visit has been a large success," said Capt. Dustin Heideman, 23d Communications Squadron flight commander and Operational Air Force project officer. "We're happy that the cadets got to see the very dynamic mission at Moody first-hand and we wish them the best success in their future endeavors."