Real Superheroes at Local Library

Toledo, Ohio -- An Airman from the 180th Fighter Wing represented the wing July 28 during "Real Superheroes" at the Waterville Branch Library.

Master Sgt. Norman J. Drzewiecki, an information protection manager, was one of four guest speakers for the event, which highlighted civil service jobs in the community.

"We want our kids, and our adults, to know all about the people in our community who keep us safe," said Patti Lusher, a librarian at the Waterville Branch Library. "Our theme this summer is superheroes, and we wanted the kids to be aware that even though superheroes are cool, they're made up. We have people all around us that are real superheroes, even though they might not look like it."

Drzewiecki opened his speech by calling the kids his troops and got them engaged with questions. The kids reacted with awed excitement when he compared the speed of the F-16 to the police cruiser of a Waterville Police officer who'd been asked how fast he can drive earlier in the event.

He told the kids about the ribbons on his uniforms and focused most of his talk on the importance of making the right choices in life.

"It's up to me, and all my wingmen, to do the right thing," Drzewiecki said. "Back in 2000 I got to ride in an F-16. The reason I got to ride in an F-16 is because I made the right choices. I need all of you guys to make the right choices at home and school."

He also told the kids about the variety of jobs in the Air Force, ranging from police and firefighters to logistics and photography.

"In the military, it's not all about shooting and wars and things like that," Drzewiecki said. "There are a lot of people out there who are trying to do bad things to the United States, and it's up to all of us to defend freedom for you guys."

At the end of his speech he passed out stickers of the base logo and received a certificate of appreciation from the library.

"He did a great job," Lusher said. "He was able to relate to the kids really well."

"He was super friendly," said Sandra Bublick, a parent who attended the event. "The stickers and the conversation were great, and the kids loved him."