Kids of the 180th Deploy, Mock Style Published Aug. 11, 2008 By 2nd Lieutenant Tiffany Pasker 180FW Public Affairs August 2008 -- "Can you please verify that the information on your dog tags are correct? Here is a copy of your orders." These are sentences that kids of 180th FW servicemembers have never heard. But on Sunday, July 13, 2008, they received a taste of what it is like to deploy as they participated in the Family Programs' mock deployment for the children of unit members here. "The mock deployment idea came from Family Programs in Tulsa. It gives the kids the opportunity to experience what mom and dad have to go through when they prepare for a deployment," said Judy York, Family Programs Coordinator. The mock deployment started promptly with a mobility line which featured Personnel, Finance, Medical, Legal, Family Programs and Supply. Each child received the necessities for their deployment to include a mobility folder complete with orders and dog tags, money from Finance, verification of shot records, legal advice, pictures for "Operation Pillowcase," and a mobility bag. Once they finished processing, they boarded a bus and were off to the deployment location, Anthony Wayne High School. There they participated in various activities such as arts and crafts, weapons training and for the older participants, basic CPR. The highlight of the deployment was the weapons training given by the Security Forces Squadron. "We showed them the M-9, M-4 with the M-68 site, M-203 Grenade Launcher," said Tech. Sgt. Timothy McCormick, Security Forces Specialist. "They received hands-on training on how to shoot. When asked who wanted to hold one, they all got in line, some of them more than once." The deployment ended with them returning to the base. "I loved it and my kids had a great time," said Senior Master Sgt. Shelly Brunn, Personnel Deployment Manager. "They really enjoyed coming to work with mom. It was beneficial because they got a chance to see the base." This mock deployment presented a unique opportunity for kids to spend time with their parents while learning more about deployment processing. Thank-you Family Programs for this fun and educational experience.