Photo by Master Sgt. Elizabeth Holliker / Released

Senior Airman Benjamin Sears, a crew chief at the 180th Fighter Wing, speaks with employers about various aspects of the F-16 Falcon. The 180th Fighter Wing and the Camp Perry Joint Training Center hosted a joint employer event May 21, sponsored by the Ohi Adjutant General's Department, welcoming 25 employers of Ohio Army and Air National Guard servicemembers.

Operation Joint Endeavor: Opportunity to Learn

Published May 24, 2011
By Capt. Katherine Cherolis
Public Affairs

Swanton, Ohio -- The 180th Fighter Wing and the Camp Perry Joint Training Center hosted a joint employer event May 21, sponsored by the Ohio Adjutant General's Department, welcoming 20 employers of Ohio Army National Guard and Air National Guard servicemembers.

The event gave the employers the opportunity to learn about the Guard mission and experience some of the things their employees do when not at their civilian jobs. As this event occurred during a drill weekend, some Guardsmen were able to greet their employers as they toured their respective shops.

The day was also an opportunity for senior Ohio National Guard leaders to thank the employers for their day-to-day sacrifices in this global environment that relies heavily on its citizen soldiers to support worldwide missions, sometimes on very short notice.

Beginning at the 180th Fighter Wing, Toledo, OH the employers were welcomed with a breakfast catered by The Flying Joe, a local coffee shop owned by a 180th member. They then received a briefing from Col. John Harris, Assistant Adjutant General, who spoke on the Guards's role in operations around the world. Col. Steven Nordhaus, 180th FW Commander, brief the group on the 180th FW.

The employers were split into two groups, both touring the Maintenance hanger and the Life Support shop. This offered an up-close look at an F-16 and the gear the pilots use when to perform their mission.

The participants were then flown to the Camp Perry JTC, where they were able to dine on an MRE lunch. Next the group participated in Army engagement war skills training that included an improvised explosive device and the engagement skills trainer. The EST was hands on with vest and soldier field uniforms.

For many employers, the day was very educational as many said they were impressed with the level of professionalism of the men and women of the Guard.

The Community Outreach plans to offer further opportunities to nominate employers in the coming months.

DD 214 Info:
Current Air Force military members can log into Personnel Records Display Application through AF Portal.

Other Branches and Retired/Separated members need to contact National Personnel Records Center at 314-801-0800 or visit: https://www.archives.gov/personnel-records-center/military-personnel