Heroes and Hardware Showcase for Employers, Families

  • Published
  • By Capt. Cathleen Snow
  • 920th Rescue Wing
The 920th Rescue Wing here showcased its military hardware and heroes for civilian employers of Air Force Reservists and Reservists' family members Saturday, June 7 from 8 a.m - 2:30 p.m. during its monthly drill weekend.

An aircraft aerial demonstration highlighted the day's events during the Air Force Reserve Wing's training weekend. Wing aircrew and pararescuemen flew a search-and-rescue training mission over the Banana River to demonstrate to the visitors how the Wing pulls together during real search and rescues that often occur off the coast of Florida.

As a combat search and rescue wing, "Our mission is to save lives, in peacetime and in war," said Wing Commander, Col. Steve Kirkpatrick.

"Everyone in the wing is responsible for saving a life," he said. "We put this event on to show civilian employers of my Reservists what their employees' military role is in national defense."

It's also a chance for the Reservists' families to get a glimpse at the mission.

The 920th RW is the only Air Force Reserve Wing that performs CSAR which keeps its Airmen busier than an average Air Force Reserve Wing. The Wing is comprised of 1,500 Airmen and flies both fixed and rotor wing aircraft: the HC-130P/N extended-range Hercules and the HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter.

The relationship between a reservists' military and civilian career are mutually beneficial as both benefit and are rewarded with a well-trained and equipped individual.

Although civilian and employers and family members of Air Force Reservists are asked to make sacrifices due to extended absences of Airmen from work and home life due to long deployments.

Their military commitment requires Reservists to juggle a myriad of tasks to include balancing their family, career and selfless service to their country. Volunteerism will remain the hallmark of the Air Force Reserve.

"The AF Reserve has extremely supportive communities, families and employers that make it possible for our Reservists to serve their country and be a part of the Rescue Wing's life-saving force. We hope to get our appreciation across to those who make it possible to perform this important mission," said the colonel.

In addition to the combat-search-and-rescue demonstration of the Wing's aircraft and pararescueman, other events include combat-search-and-rescue mission briefing, high-impact videos, equipment displays, and a picnic.