Airmen volunteer at Texas Oklahoma fair Published Sept. 24, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Jelani Gibson 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Airmen got a chance to enjoy their day off at the Texas-Oklahoma Fair Sept. 17. The Texas Oklahoma Fair was holding a military appreciation day as their way of thanking the Air Force for everything they do within the local community. Airmen from the 366th Training Squadron were volunteering at the fair as part of a military appreciation event throughout the local area. "They're helping the greater good," said Lt. Col. Jeffrey White, 366th Training Squadron commander. "It goes back to our servant heart." The event started with a band, as the sound of their instruments chorused across the area. When they finished, a solemn ceremony was held for the national anthem as military and civilian alike showed their respects in unison. White understands Airmen are a part of the local community and events like this serve as a reminder of what the Air Force mission represents and how important positive community relations are. That's who we're serving," he said. "It helps keep us grounded and reminds us of what we're fighting for." The volunteers were eager to get involved with something enjoyable and service-minded. "It's a cool opportunity," said Airman 1st Class Rydel Hutchins, 366th TRS electrical systems student. Hutchins, originally from Modesto, Calif., used to volunteer a lot back in his community and views his work at Sheppard as a reminder to the work he did back home. "Working with people is my way of not falling too far from home," he said. Airman 1st Class Kyle Bagwell, 366th TRS electrical systems student, believes volunteering is something that can help everybody. "Just get involved," he said. "It's for the betterment of America." As evening descended upon the festival, each ride and attraction sent out a dazzle of colors that lit up the night, and with it the enthusiasm of its tireless participants.