Operation KIDS deploy at Sheppard Published April 15, 2014 By Airman 1st Class Robert L. McIlrath 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- A small group from Sheppard deployed April 5, but it was no ordinary deployment. To help military children achieve a better perspective and understanding on what their parents go through during a deployment, Sheppard hosts Operation KIDS once a year. The 46 deploying were called to duty at 7a.m. on this particular Saturday morning and were greeted by Col. Eric Froehlich, 82nd Training Wing vice commander. He briefed them on their mission for the day. "My two older kids have seen me deploy, this helped them get a better understanding of what I did," Froehlich said. Once they were briefed, the children loaded the bus to catch their C-130 flight to Base-X. Upon their arrival at Base-X, the kids were able to observe and interact with items and vehicles such as security forces weapons and gear, ambulance equipment, explosive ordinance disposal robots and a bomb suit, chemical biological radiological nuclear equipment, a fire truck, and K-9 units. After interacting with all of the gear and vehicles, everyone was treated to snacks and soda. Upon mission completion, they boarded the bus to return home, where they were greeted with a welcome home party. The party, littered with patriotic streamers and American flags, greeted the young ones with welcome home signs and hugs.