Operation Joint Endeavor: Employers of guardsmen receive orientation

  • Published
  • By Capt. Katherine Cherolis
  • 180th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TOLEDO, Ohio (AFNS) --  Members of the Ohio Air National Guard's 180th Fighter Wing and the Ohio Army National Guard's Camp Perry Joint Training Center hosted a joint employer event May 21, sponsored by the Ohio Adjutant General, welcoming 20 employers of Ohio Air National Guard and Army National Guard service members.

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 also was 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 Airmen and Soldiers to support worldwide missions, sometimes on very short notice.

Beginning at the 180th Fighter Wing at the Toledo Express Airport, the employers were welcomed with a breakfast catered by employees of The Flying Joe, a local coffee shop owned by a 180th FW member. They then received a briefing from Col. John Harris, assistant adjutant general, who spoke on the Guard's role in operations around the world. Col. Steven Nordhaus, the 180th FW commander, briefed the group on 180th FW operations.

The employers were split into two groups, both touring the maintenance hangar and the life support shop. This offered an up-close look at an F-16 Fighting Falcon and the equipment the pilots use when to perform their mission.

The participants then were flown to the Camp Perry JTC, where they were able to dine on a Meals Ready to Eat 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 the 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.