MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, FL --
Over thirty members of the Boy Scouts of America Troop 68, Odessa FL, visited the 927th Air Refueling Wing, MacDill Air Force Base, FL Jan. 7, 2016.
The scouts met with Airmen to gain a better understanding of the base’s mission with a focus on the KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft, and marine patrol unit assigned to the 6th Air Mobility Wing Security Forces Squadron.
During the visit to the base, scouts were taken to the flightline to view a KC-135 static display and briefed by members of the 927th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron about the capabilities of the aircraft.
"We couldn’t be more delighted to have these boys visiting our base and getting a true sense of what it means to serve," said Chief Master Sgt. Harold Potter. “I think it’s important for these kids in the community to understand what their military does to protect them and I believe this tour will make a lasting impact on their lives going forward.”
After viewing the static display, the members were given briefings from members of the 6th Air Mobility Wing Security Forces Squadron marine patrol.
“It’s nice to have these kids be able to see that the Air Force isn’t just about air defense,” said Senior Airman Matthew Altimari, 6th Air Mobility Wing Security Forces marine patrol journeyman. “We are a very diverse group, and the boy scouts got to see other ways we protect our nation.”
Ken Leonard, leader of the boy scouts group was extremely pleased with the turnout of the tour.
“The boys were thoroughly pleased with what they were able to see today,” said Leonard. “Overall this was a great turnout for these boys and I know they’re going to remember this for the rest of their lives.”
The Boy Scouts of America is one of the nation's largest and most prominent values-based youth development organizations. The BSA provides a program for young people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness.