Sheppard youth to experience deployment during Operation KIDS

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Adawn Kelsey
  • 82nd Training WIng Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Sheppard Air Force Base will deploy some of its youngest members April 10 during a full day of deployment at this year's Operation KIDS event.

Once a year Operation KIDS gives kids at Sheppard an opportunity to experience what their parents go through before, during and after a deployment.
Tech. Sgt. Richard Cory, Airman and Family Readiness Center readiness NCO, said Operation KIDS will give children hands-on experience of deployment, from being recalled to a homecoming reunion.

"We have been hosting Operation KIDS for the past three or four years," Sergeant Cory said. "Each year is different, but the ideas are based on showing children what the process is to deploy."

The sergeant said there will be displays for the children to explore and, upon deploying, they will have their picture taken and receive deployment gear such as dog tags, a cooler bag and more.

"After the initial recall and they are issued gear, Army personnel will take them to a C-130 and be transported to Base X and arrive at their deployment station," Sergeant Cory said.

In previous years, Tech. Sgt. Erich Lofton, 82nd Force Support Squadron relocation technician, participated in planning Operation KIDS and said he feels this event is definitely a tremendous one and encourages the parents to participate.

"This event is an opportunity for parents, who have deployed or are deploying, to show their children what it is that we do," Sergeant Lofton said. "The display setups range from medical to (Office of Special Investigations) to security forces. The demonstrations help children understand that their mom or dad is taken care of, that they have someone to help if they get hurt and have protection so they are safe."

Sergeant Lofton said it helps children understand the concept of deploying. He said it shows the children that their parent is not always deploying to a combat zone.

Parents will be able to sign up their children until April 8. To sign up for the event please visit the A&FRC in Bldg. 962 or call 676-4358. Children must be at least five years old and accompanied by an adult. For any questions or concerns, contact Sergeant Cory at 676-5116.