7 FS commander speaks to Ruidoso children

  • Published
  • By Airman Sondra M. Escutia
  • 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  The commander of the 7th Fighter Squadron here gave a presentation to students in Ruidoso, N.M., October 21, introducing them to Holloman's newest weapons system, the F-22A Raptor.

Mindful of community concerns regarding sonic booms, Lt. Col. Mike Hernandez was on hand to both educate the students about the F-22A and to inform them of Holloman's first large force employment aerial exercise which took place October 23.

"I wanted to teach them about what we do in the Air Force and explain to them the fantastic capabilities of the F-22," said Colonel Hernandez.

More than 700 students, third through six graders, from White Mountain Elementary and Intermediate schools watched and participated in the presentation given by Lt. Col. Mike Hernandez.

The colonel showed a few videos of the F-22 and talked to them about its capabilities. He also explained sonic booms and how they are formed. The children, many of which have heard the F-22, seemed very excited to learn about the 5th generation fighter.

Hands darted in the air when Colonel Hernandez opened the floor for questions. They ranged from how much the aircraft cost, who paid for them and all about the ejection seat in the aircraft.

"I think they liked the presentation," said the colonel. "They definitely had tons of questions."

Mr. Ron Elkin, the principal at White Mountain Elementary, said it was a great opportunity for the children to learn about the U.S. Air Force.

"I think the kids need to appreciate what our [military] is doing to protect the United States," he said. "Hopefully it put a face to the Air Force and let them see that they're human beings just like you and I."

Before the end of the presentation, Mr. Elkin asked Colonel Hernandez to talk about his education so the children could see the benefits of doing well in school.

"I wanted to make it clear to the kids that education is the ticket to what you want to do in life," said Mr. Elkin. "I truly appreciate everyone's willingness to make this happen. It was great."

More presentations will be given to students throughout the Tularosa Basin and Sacramento Mountain soon.