Dover airmen bring their parents to work

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Deanna McClay
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. (AFPN) --  More than 100 parents beamed with pride and admiration as they walked arm-in-arm with their sons or daughters here. For many of these parents, this was their first exposure to the Air Force’s inner-workings and lifestyle.

Bring Your Parents to Work Day, held at the Air Mobility Command Museum on April 25, showed parents what their children do here.

“It’s an eye-opener for (my parents),” said Staff Sgt. Don Deitterick, of the 436th Aerial Port Squadron. “I tell them about what I do, but it’s hard for them to understand without seeing it for themselves.”

The day began with the base honor guard posting the colors and the choral ensemble singing the national anthem. Col. Scott Wuesthoff, 436th Airlift Wing commander, followed with words of welcome and thanks.

“We’re breaking ground today with the first Bring Your Parents to Work Day,” said Wuesthoff. “Today’s event allows us to demonstrate not only our pride in each of (your children) as individuals, but in their accomplishments and successes in carrying out the mission. We want you to see what a great team your sons and daughters are a part of. We’re grateful that you have entrusted them to the Air Force.”

After gaining a better understanding of the base’s mission and the day’s schedule, visitors divided into groups and went to see Dover’s crown jewel, the C-5 Galaxy.

“I can’t believe how big this plane is,” said Ray McIver, father of Airman 1st Class Brandon McIver who is part of the 436th Medical Group. “When Brandon invited us to Bring Your Parents to Work Day, I couldn’t get here fast enough. I’m so fascinated by the Air Force and the planes, and this is such a great opportunity to see things most people won’t.”

The parents were not the only people who were excited to see what the day had in store. For many Dover airmen, this was a chance to learn about the aspects of the base they are not normally associated with.

“I’ve been here for two years, and this is the first time I’ve been on a C-5,” said Senior Airman Melissa Stillwagon, from the 436th MDG. “It’s just as exciting for me, as it is for the parents.”

Seeing the inside of a C-5 and learning its capabilities was a highpoint for many of the visitors.

“Just knowing this is the plane that will take supplies to our troops, is very moving,” said Bea Stillwagon, mother of Senior Airman Robert Stillwagon Jr., from the 436th Component Maintenance Squadron. “I think it’s wonderful that with everything going on right now, we’re still able to visit.”

Other events included watching a video on the wing’s mission, touring the AMC Museum and viewing a K-9 team demonstration from the 436th Security Forces Squadron.

“I’m a dog lover, and I’d have to say that was my favorite part of the tour,” said Lee Simmons, mother of 2nd Lt. Tim Simmons from the 436th Logistics Readiness Squadron. “I’ve spent a lot of time around the military, but I always enjoy seeing the sights of the bases.”

Perhaps the most personal part of the day for the parents was the tour of their child’s work place. This gave the parents the unique opportunity to go behind-the-scenes and meet the people their children work with.

“I’m excited to spend time with my parents and show them what I do on a daily basis,” said McIver. “I’m going to show them where I work and live -- that should be fun.”

“It’s amazing to see all the things that the people do daily,” said Omotayo Olatunji, mother of Airman 1st Class Olayinka Olatunji from the 436th SFS. “I learned the women are right there rubbing shoulders with men, doing the same jobs. I’m so proud of her.”

By all accounts from parents and planners, the day was a success.

“It’s overwhelming to see the smiles, hugs, kisses and tears of pride each parent and child had today as (the) parents were assured the Air Force family truly does take good care of their sons and daughters,” said Senior Master Sgt. Michael Prystajko, 436th AW career assistance adviser and coordinator for the event. “For me personally, this made all the hard work, planning and organizing the events worth it.”

The overall success of the day may mean that Bring Your Parents to Work Day will become an annual event at Dover AFB, officials said.