Security Forces host day for local children

Published June 20, 2008
By Senior Airman Lana Mills
52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- With so many members of the 52nd Security Forces Squadron coming back from deployments, the returning airmen wanted to reconnect and come together for their quarterly project so they decided to host a day all about showing the local community they care.

To do this, they invited the children from St. Vinzenshaus, a local Speicher orphanage, to come out and play, eat and learn more about the military community.
Security Forces flight chief, Tech. Sgt. Notley Reavis and Security Police officer Melanie Bryant headed up the event.

"It gives them a chance to see the base and understand a little bit more about us and we get to learn more about them," Sergeant Reavis said. "It's a chance to build teamwork and camaraderie with the local community."

Security Forces dog handlers provided a K-9 and apprehension demonstration to show the children more about what they do. An explosive ordinance disposal team and the fire department also came out and let the children get hands-on with the truck and equipment. Everyone played tag, football and even sumo wrestling. All of that helped work up their appetites for some barbeque.

The "play day" was all funded by the 52nd SFS. The commissary also chipped in and donated drinks. This made the day even more special for the children because most activities they do are paid for through the orphanages funds.

"It's really nice. It opens your heart when you see them smiling," said SPO Melanie Bryant. "They are so happy."

There was only thing that Sergeant Reavis wished they would have done differently. "We'll try to order some more sun next time." But he said the weather didn't put a damper on the event. "Even when rain was coming down, they were running around having a blast. Being from Germany, they're used to the rain," he said.

Both Security Forces and the children said they had so much fun the squadron is already making plans for a Christmas Party for their friends at the St. Vinzenshaus orphanage. "Everyone says this is so nice and we want to come back," SPO Melanie Bryant said. "I don't think they could have had a better time."