The 927th Air Refueling Wing visits local schools during Great American Teach-In

  • Published
  • By Staff Sergeant Adam Borgman
  • 927 ARW Public Affairs
PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. --  Members of the 927th Air Refueling Wing visited elementary, middle and high schools in Pinellas County, Florida in support of the Great American Teach In, Nov. 19.

The group of traditional and full-time reservists traveled to 11 schools and 120 classes explaining their duties as an Air Force Reservist and communicating their individual Air Force stories to the students.

"It was great to have these men and women in uniform participate in the Great American Teach-In," said Dianna King, Lealman Intermediate School, volunteer coordinator. "Their excitement and dedication inspired more than just the students today, it continued to inspire our educators as well."

Not only did the Reservists speak about their jobs in the Air Force, they also explained the importance of how education played a role in getting them where they are today.

"I've been in the Air Force for 14 years, and have completed my undergraduate and master's degree in management thanks to the Air Force," said Senior Master Sgt Erin Willis, 927th Maintenance Operations Flight Superintendent. "Among the contemporary education I have had the opportunity to attend many professional military education courses that assist my leadership and training abilities."

The Great American Teach-In is an annual event where local community members volunteer their time to reach out to the youth at schools throughout the country.

The Air Force Reserve was not the only local military branch participating in the Great American Teach-In, members of the U.S. Coast Guard, stationed in St. Petersburg, traveled with the Reservists and presented to the students alongside Airmen of the 927 ARW.

"This is a great opportunity to demonstrate the comradrey among the branches as well as leave a positive impression with thousands of youths in our community," said Chief Petty Officer John Morgan, U.S. Coast Guard.

As the day drew to a close, the Reservists and Coast Guardsmen reached out to more than 2200 students, explaining their purpose in the military and how education can benefit their success.

According to Tech Sgt. Danishon Felder, President, 927th Wing Safety Superintendent, the students were not the only ones who benefited from the day.

"Being able to share my story with each of those students, reminded me why I love my job, and why I joined the Air Force," said Felder. "Every one of us learned something today, if not only about ourselves, we learned in the hands of tomorrow's leaders we have nothing to worry about."