Airmen share military experiences with high school students

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Theanne Herrmann
  • 624th Regional Support Group
JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii – Eleven Airmen from the 624th Regional Support Group volunteered alongside the local recruiting station in support of a career fair at Kaimuki High School, Honolulu, Hawaii, Jan. 27.

The 624th RSG recruiter, Tech. Sgt. Michael Shinohara, gathered Airmen with various backgrounds to showcase what the Air Force Reserve can offer to the more than 800 Hawaii students.

“We made sure to get someone from every career field to help answer any questions the students may have,” said Shinohara. “We have firefighters, civil engineers, air transportation specialists, public affairs and medical career fields.”

Airman A.J. Asensio, an air transportation specialist with the 48th Aerial Port Squadron, shared his motivation for joining the Air Force Reserve with the students.

“I thought, I’ll do something for myself and maybe leave a legacy,” said Asensio. “With the Air Force you get to change the world. Your job might seem small, but it always makes a difference. I may be loading medical supplies that will help someone during a war."

Arcenio also credits the Air Force Reserve for inspiring him to lead a healthy lifestyle.

“It demands a lifestyle change, because being physically and mentally fit is a big deal in the military,” said Asensio. “Being in the Air Force changes your overall well-being physically, mentally and financially for the better.”

Hundreds of students stopped by to talk with the Reservists, to include Princess Heaven Baez, a Kaimuki Freshman.

“I am glad this booth is here,” said Baez. “I want to learn more about the military and what my options are for the future.”