Maintenance NCO informs Connecticut children about Westover mission

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Andrew Biscoe
  • 439th AW Public Affairs
MANCHESTER, Conn. --  A 439th Airlift Wing reservist visited a Connecticut school during "America's Week" following the July 4th weekend.

The Washington Elementary School camp director, from Manchester Conn., contacted Tech. Sgt. Karl Koenig of the 439th Maintenance Squadron, who also lives in Manchester, about a visit to talk with children from the third to fifth grade, about the Air Force.

"I spoke about the history of the Air Force, my job in the regional isochronal dock, and the role many reserve members have in wartime missions," Sergeant Koenig said.

"I also informed the kids about the humanitarian missions we support, and the challenges of balancing home life and military commitments."

Sergeant Koenig brought along base information on the C-5 and Westover to show the children.

His favorite question came from a fifth-grader.

"She asked, 'So, will you still be in the Air Force Reserve when I am old
enough to go in?'"

"Well, that's only 9 years from now, so absolutely," he replied.

"Awesome. Maybe you will be my boss," she answered.

Sergeant Koenig coordinated his visit with the 439th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Office.

"It felt great to see how excited the kids were as they looked at pictures of things I do on an everyday basis," he said.

"I'm glad I was able to give back to my local community and brighten the day of some young students."

Airmen with the 439th AW who wish to visit the public are encouraged to do so as part of the wing's community relations program. For more information, call PA at 557-2020, or email to 439aw.pa@westover.af.mil