Operation Hero: mission success

  • Published
  • By Airman Anthony Jennings
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  "Daddy, this is the best day of my life," said, Madeline Jansen, 7-year old daughter of Lt. Col. Michael Jansen right after Security Forces laid the "smack down," on a simulated terrorist, in one of the many demos performed for Operation Hero, April 25. 

Team Eglin's youngest members had the opportunity to experience the deployment process, thanks to Operation Hero. 

During the mission, 163 children gained a hands-on understanding of what their deploying parents go through, in hopes to alleviate the anxiety that comes when a loved one goes to war. 

"We want children to leave with a better appreciation of what their parents must endure," said Master Sgt. Mary Davis, Eglin Airman and Family Readiness superintendent. "We don't want children to worry about their parent's safety and be fearful of their departure. Hopefully this event puts their mind at ease by eliminating the mystery of what their parents are doing during deployments." 

Operation Hero began with a deployment line. The children received "immunizations," signed for a power-of-attorney and received a t-shirt, water bottle and a goodie bag containing personalized dog tags and identification cards. They were even equipped with a weapon - a lethal squirt gun. 

Once they were prepared, they departed to "Hogwarts Air Base," also known as Base Tango, a simulated base in the area of responsibility at the 96th Ground Combat Training Squadron compound. 

Upon arrival, the children received a welcome briefing from Col. Alan Bridges, 96th Mission Support Group commander, who emphasized the importance of protective gear, sunscreen and hydration. 

"The kids were provided a very realistic experience," said Tech. Sgt. Brooke Matthews, 96th Mission Support Squadron. "The hurry up and wait mentality, the day was hot and sunny, and the opportunity to try on all the gear helped them to understand how demanding deployment really is." 

At various stations representing parts of deployment, the children got to try on chemical gear and learned self-aid buddy care. They even got to throw water balloons at 96th GCTS members, simulating weapons training. 

During the main demonstration by the 96th GCTS, Airmen eliminated a simulated terrorist threat when clearing a building. They arrived on scene in Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles, a fully armored vehicle designed to survive improvised explosive devises and ambushes. The roar of machine guns was followed with Airmen entering the building where the suspect was located. A few moments later they brought the subdued terrorist out handcuffed. The audience responded with thunderous applause and standing ovation. 

"They did a great job," said Senior Airman Kim Belcher, with her 7-month old baby in her arms. She attended the event with her three children. "I think what they liked most was being able to see people doing their job." 

Though the deployments process may be another Air Force way of life, Operation Hero made it a child's "best day ever."