The 168th Squadron hosted a “Bring-a-Buddy to Work Day,” inviting friends, family and community partners to learn about the squadron’s mission and responsibilities. Squadron members shared their skills and described a day at the office and the missions they are frequently involved in throughout their careers.

“I was very happy to be able to support the recent Innovative Readiness Training mission in Saipan where our medical team members provided medical care,” said Staff Sgt. Amberlynn Crisostomo of the 168th Squadron. “We were able to network and it was cool to meet people from our profession in other units and people from Saipan.”

Master Sgt. Jezabelle O’Neill, Force Support Superintendent, reported several opportunities for human resources specialists in her career field to network and travel: “We get to support the mission in other states and with different units, in addition to our state headquarters in Anchorage. We are close-knit and enjoy working with other units. You get to meet all kinds of great people around the world.”

During the tour, guests met Airmen and saw the various Guard unit work centers.

“In our administrative roles, we manage our members’ records and assist them with their careers,” said Master Sgt. Matthew Coleman. “As staff, we are there for our commanders and help them with their calendars and administrative tasks.”

The maintenance group provided a behind-the-scenes look at inspections, hydraulics and the engine shop. Tech Sgt. David Snap of the engine shop explained how the KC-135 engines work and the maintenance they perform to keep the mission in the air.

Tech Sgt. Blayne Kiser explained the aircraft’s hydraulics and the extensive maintenance required. Inspections were discussed, as well as the maintenance hours required to keep an aircraft in the air, just like we maintain personal vehicles.

Loretta Fogg, a local mother and bush pilot who attended Buddy Day with her son, shared why she was glad the wing offered such an opportunity: “In Alaska, we all know about branching rivers. When kids say there’s only one way to get somewhere, I like to say no. We all fly from the Canadian border across the Yukon River to the ocean and there are so many different ways to get there. You never know which way will offer you so much more in life.”

“I’m thrilled that my son was able to come and see something he’s always wanted to do,” Fogg said.

The tour also stopped at the Communications Squadron where today’s cyber mission was discussed. The friends who visited our squadron also learned about the career opportunities available to the people.

“I was able to join and attend school for free,” said Captain Elizabeth Carter. “I am honored and grateful for my experience here in the Guard, as my experiences here in the 168th Squadron allowed me to get a job at NOAA. I started communications training here and continued my education, earning certifications that led to my full-time career.”

The Logistics Readiness Squadron presented their career fields and how they relate to community and civilian careers. Tech Sgt. Andrew Graham explained the LRS portion of the flight mission and the parts and equipment provided for flight line operations.

Master Sgt. Anthony Accardi, a vehicle transport specialist, was the tour guide for the day and concluded the tour with a barbecue where 168 WG members visited their friends who had invited them to the wing.