AF teens participate in Joint Services Teen Council

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Steve Grever
  • Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas (AFNS) --  Air Force Teen Council representatives attended the first Joint Services Teen Council meeting July 13 to network and discuss common issues affecting military youth and teens worldwide here.

From July 9-13, members of the Air Force Teen Council, Army Teen Panel and Navy Teen Council participated in training sessions on leadership, teen advocacy and public speaking. At the end of the event, the JSTC briefed senior leaders from each service on issues affecting teens and their proposal for a joint project called Operation MegaPhone.

"This initiative focuses on raising awareness of youth programs through marketing campaigns and creating public service announcements," said Hunter Woodard, Air Force Teen Council representative. "We also plan to conduct a military-wide teen lock-in during the Month of Military Child that will unite all military teens through games, challenges and fun activities. Our goal for this project is to showcase all the opportunities military youth programs provide teens on a global level."

After hearing about the project and other challenges facing military teens, senior leaders from each service expressed their support for the JSTC and Operation MegaPhone.

"I'm thrilled that you guys did this and came up with an action plan for Operation MegaPhone," said Col. Tom Joyce, Air Force Personnel Center Services Directorate director. "Go and do it. Each and every one of you brings something a little different to the team. You're a diverse group of smart, young individuals who realize you are better together."

The 34 JSTC members from each service represent approximately 1.5 million military teens. Their mission is to advocate for military youth and teens around the world through establishing unity and communication with military leadership and ultimately enact change.

"The essence of the future of America is in great hands because of the enthusiasm, intelligence and commitment we are seeing in young Americans today," said Rich Gorman, Army Deputy Director of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs. "Your personal commitment to help our country reach its destiny is most appreciated. You will always have our continued support for you and the programs you need."

For more information about AFPC services programs, visit http://www.usafservices.com. For general information about personnel services and programs, visit the myPers website at https://mypers.af.mil.