Previous Stories

81st FSS prepares families for deployments

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Stephan Coleman
  • 81st Training Wing Public Affairs
KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  The 81st Force Support Squadron held Operation Hero March 8, for base personnel and their families.

Operation Hero is a bi-annual event that helps familiarize military family members with deployed environments, equipment and activities.

"It lets kids see what their parents may do in a deployed environment," said Master Sgt. Marcus Hogsten, 81st FSS. "Having tangible ideas for what family members may be eating or wearing while overseas can relieve anxiety."

The event had booths from the 403rd Reserve Wing, 81st Medical Group, 602nd Training Group, 81st Security Forces Squadron, the Keesler Families OverComing Under Stress office, and even civilian units from the local area.

Medics used the opportunity to display equipment and demonstrate simple Self-Aid and Buddy Care to children.

"We want to show the kids how we're taking care of their parents in the field," said Tech. Sgt. Christina Re, 81st Medical Diagnostics Squadron. "That way they know they're safe."
Weapons, vehicles and apparel were on display at various stations as well.

Having physical items for family members to see and touch help them conceptualize the idea of deployment, said Staff Sgt. Benjamin Nelson, 602nd TRG.

"Bringing all this equipment together makes kids realize what their parents have to do to get ready," said Nelson, "It also shows what their parents get to do and use while deployed. We want to make sure everyone is prepared for deployment, families included."
Previous Story
Next Story