302nd AW opens doors, aircraft to employers

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Stephen J. Collier
  • 302nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Sometimes, it can be taken for granted how supportive Citizen Airmen are to the Air Force mission. There are several "enablers" in a reservist's life that allows them to support the mission, but one of the most important is the relationship with their employer.

To show appreciation, the 302nd Airlift Wing invited local and regional employers to Peterson June 13 for a closer look at the local AF Reserve's mission of tactical airlift, aeromedical evacuation and aerial firefighting. The day's events began with a traditional in brief, presented by Col. Jay Pittman, 302nd AW commander. Afterwards, the employers transitioned to the wing's 34th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron where they learned about the critical mission of evacuating wounded military members and civilians from hostile battlefields.

While visiting the 34th AES, Larry Rothe, a special projects coordinator for the Colorado Springs-based Quantum Corporation, noted the satisfaction he thought employers got from their reserve employees servicing in the AF Reserve.

"I think (reservists) get the satisfaction of knowing that they are helping the country and helping other people," Mr. Rothe said. "As an employer, you get the satisfaction of knowing your employee is putting his best foot forward, not only for the company, but for the country as well. I like the fact that my employee has many diverse things that he can do and he can multi-task very well between his family, his work and his Reserve duty. "

After the employers visited the 34th AES, they were transported to the base's flight line where they boarded a C-130 for a flight over the Rocky Mountain's famed Pikes Peak as well as the southern Colorado towns of Cripple Creek and Canon City. Prior to the flight, Charlie Huebner, director of the U.S. Olympic Committee's Paralympics division, said he felt it was "critical for employers to ensure we support our members of the armed services."

I knew this airlift wing supported fires and everything like that, but the education I got today just expanded my knowledge (of the AF Reserve)," Mr. Huebner said. "It's very important that all American companies support our armed services and our reserves and not only let them protect us, but let them address any major issues that this country faces, like a wild fire."

After the flight, the employers dined the base's Aragon Dining Facility, where they were treated to rare menu items: steak and lobster. While eating, the employers were given an in-depth briefing on the needs of ESGR. Soon after, Colonel Pittman presented each employer with a traditional "challenge coin," signifying the respect of the military for the employer's support and, sometimes, sacrifice of having employees as Citizen Airmen. 

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