Airmen visit Chilean orphanage

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Candace Cutrufo
  • 12th Air Force Public Affairs
SANTIAGO, Chile (AFPN) --  Airmen participating in the largest air show in South America took a moment between demonstrations and displays to visit more than 30 preschool-aged children April 3 at the Koinomadelfia orphanage west of Santiago. 

The Airmen from the 366th Fighter Wing at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, and 301st FW at Carswell Joint Reserve Base, Texas, handed out stickers, stuffed animals and toys to more than 30 children.

The children from Koinomadelfia, home to children rescued from violent situations, then played with the Airmen. The Airmen's visit was one of a weeklong agenda packed with events focused on the strength of interpersonal relationships.

"FIDAE 2008 isn't only an opportunity to celebrate aviation and train alongside our Chilean air force partners," said Col. James Russell, the director of operations at 12th Air Force. "Aircrews, maintainers and staff are stepping forward and volunteering to spend their time to meet with the people of Santiago, visiting hospitals, orphanages and other organizations. Service before self is not just a core value, it is the true character of our Airmen. At every turn I am overwhelmed with volunteers to participate in these outreach activities." 

"I'm grateful for the opportunity to play with these children even though there is sometimes a language barrier," said Staff Sgt. Jeremy Dodd, assigned to the 366th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron from Mountain Home AFB. "I wish I would have known more Spanish, but luckily, smiles, toys and play are a universal language." 

Air Force members fluent in Spanish found little need to translate as the energetic children took the opportunity to enjoy the spotlight of the Airmen's attention. 

After nearly two hours of playtime, the Airmen had to say goodbye and got back to work at the FIDAE air and trade show. Sixteen aircraft from the active duty, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve participated in the event. Airmen also participated in an air exercise with Chilean air force members during the week. 

"For these kids, it's an honor for the U.S. Air Force to visit because we live a very simple life and don't have many visitors here," said Monica Hernandez, the director of the Koinomadelfia orphanage. "It's a very special day for them. This day was like a dream come true for these kids. I know it's one we'll never forget." 

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