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104 Fighter Wing hosts high school students

By Erin O'Connor

Staff Writer



WESTFIELD The 104th Fighter wing of the Massachusetts Air National Guard hosted 400 high school students May 2-4 in an exploration and tour program.

"This program is centered toward promoting education and goal setting. We hope that the students can see first hand how their education can impact their options in the future," Master Sergeant Deborah Shilaikis, said. She started the program four years ago.

"I heard about the program at school while giving blood," said Crystal Bushuy, of Putnam Vocational High School, in Springfield.

"I like the parachute exhibit the best," she said, "I would like to go sky diving."

Eric Dubois from Sci-Tech Vocational High School in Springfield is a member of Naval Junior Reserve Office Training Core(NJROTC). He has been a member since freshman year of high school.

"I am here to get further knowledge to see if this could be a career for me," he said.

"This program is about more than recruiting," Captain Matthew Mutti of the 104th Wing said, "It is about helping students to succeed in high school. Students who have no idea about what kinds of careers to take."

The program is continuing to expand, said Mutti. More high schools and guidance counselors are contacting the Wing to sign up.

Westfield High School is currently starting an internship program with Barnes in which students can receive high school credits for interning at the base.

Students currently participating in the program ranged from 16 schools in 11 districts, including East Longmeadow, Springfield, Chicopee, and North and South Quabin Regions.

"We have been doing this for a few years," TSgt Gabriel Kushin said, a recruiting officer. "We send invitation letters out to high schools to attend."

"We are here to broaden the students understanding of the variety of oppurtunities the air national guard offers, it is not just about flying planes," he said.

There were numerous exhibits displayed around the base, explaining areas of study such as civil engineering and health and first aid.

Sergeant Scott O'Dell demonstrates the refueling of an airplane and all the intricate planning and intelligence that go into such a job.

Jackie McKenna of Chicopee Comprehensive High School walked around with "drunk goggles" on, that allow her to virtually see how alcohol impairs her vision and functioning abilities.

Master Sergeant Don Wright explained an ejection seat to the crowd while Sergeant Tom McDonald demonstrated the procedure of packing a parachute.

The 104th Fighter Wing is an operational flying unit assigned to Air Combat Command, it is one of the oldest flying units in Massachusetts as stated on its website.

"Being part of the Air National Guard allows me to serve my community and country at the same time," Mussi said.

For more information about the 104th and events it sponsers go to www.mabarn.ang.af.mil/