Ellsworth mentors students during career day

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Zachary Hada
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
4/29/2013 --  ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. - More than 200 eighth-grade students from Pierre Middle School visited the South Dakota Air and Space Museum April 23, as part of a career day field trip designed to help students learn more about Ellsworth's mission.

The students visited various area businesses and higher education facilities in addition to participating in a listen and learn session conducted by Airmen from many specialties around base.

During the listen and learn session, students listened to Airmen from a variety of career fields speak about the military, the Air Force's mission, the importance of good grades, graduating, and staying out of trouble.

Staff Sgt. Kyle Wurdeman, 28th Civil Engineer Squadron fire protection specialist, was one of the many speakers who shared their knowledge and experiences with the students throughout the day.

"We took a chance to get ourselves involved with the local community and explain to the students what the military has given us and what it has to offer to kids growing up," said Wurdeman. "We provided a clear image of what Airmen do day to day."

Wurdeman added that he wanted to help inspire the students to set future goals and provide the motivation they would need to accomplish them.

Master Sgt. Eric Grim, SDASM curator, helped organize and host the event on behalf of Ellsworth.

"We are given so many opportunities because we serve," explained Grim. "I think it's important that we take some time and give back to the communities that support us so well. Anytime we can have an impact on youth, we need to take that opportunity."

Grim added that the best part of the day was hearing how thankful and excited the kids and staff were for the servicemembers that participated.

"Believe it or not, every day you put your uniform on you become a role model," Grim said. "We can have an extremely positive impact on students."