First of all we were able to secure an Air Force van so that we wouldn't have to use our personal vehicles, or rent a van. Our first stop was at CATM, or Combat Arms Training and Maintenance. The airmen there were able to take us into the armory, where the Scouts got to see and handle some of the various weapons, such as the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, the M240B machine gun, M203 grenade launcher, and even the longe range M82 .50 cal rifle. We weren't allowed to take any pictures here, but I'm sure the Scouts will have a good lasting impression of it.
Next up was the Explosive Ordnance Disposal, or EOD teams. We got to head into their training room and see just about every type of rocket, mine, grenade, or detonator you could think up. But the best part was when they took us outside and showed us all of the high-tech gear they use for identifying and possibly disarming explosives. Most of these airmen had been deployed overseas, so we got to hear some great first-hand stories. They demonstrated their x-ray equipment which they use to identify a possible bomb, and they also showed us the robots that they deploy in the field when they need to get close to something that might be dangerous - a shotgun can even be mounted on the larger robot just in case they need to destroy an explosives case or breach a door! These robots cost over $150k, but the Air Force guys were more than willing to turn them over to our Scouts, who all got a chance to remotely operate the robots around the parking lot - picking up hats, leaves, and anything else they could find! The final piece of gear they showed us was their bomb suit, which is what they wear when they have to go in themselves and disarm an explosive device. This suit weighs 78 pounds, but has lots of armor, lights, radio equipment, and even built-in fans to keep the EOD tech cool. A few of the Scouts got to try it on - it turned out to be pretty heavy for them!
After we thanked the EOD techs, we moved onto the softball fields where we were able to watch the K-9 team go to work. "Crash" was the K-9 of the day as he simulated hostile takedowns, prisoner escorts, and even how he could be at his handler's side in an instant, ready to defend his handler's life with his own. It's important to realize that these dogs are not aggressive in nature - they are friendly animals that love to play and be petted just like any other dog. The difference is their breeding and training - they respond only to certain commands, but make no mistake that they respond instantly and to great effect. This was an especially exciting part of the trip for Bro. Stilson (the older one), since he was in the K-9 Veterinary Corp during his time in the Army, and worked closely with the dog handlers and trainers while deployed to Vietnam. The K-9 team is made up of some great guys, and we really enjoyed our time with them.
The EOR, or End of Runway, was our next destination. Here was another spot where we weren't able to take any photos due to our close proximity to the planes while they were on the ground, but again - memories like this don't need photos! Our group was able to be as close as safely possible to the jets while they took off and landed. Luke Air Force Base is a training facility for F-16 pilots, so in addition to the single-seat F-16s, which are the standard combat variety, we were also able to see the two-seat F-16 which can also carry an Instructor Pilot. Over 20 planes took off or landed as we watched, and when an F-16 takes off when you're that close, not only can you see the engine glow but you can feel it in your chest! During all this Corey was able to give us great information on Luke AFB history as well as information on the F-16 and how rigorous pilot training is. Did you know it takes over 6 years for someone to become a fighter pilot in the Air Force?
One more stop before lunch: the static displays. Not every plane that has ever flown at Luke AFB has a static display at the Air Park, but most of them are there, and the Scouts could get as close as they wanted to these jets. At every jet there was a bronze plaque describing the jet, it's capabilites, and when it was at Luke. There is also a memorial in the center of the park for every Air Force serviceman who has earned the Medal of Honor.
Our last stop at Luke AFB was chow! We went over to Club Five Six for their excellent buffet. This club serves enlisted men and women as well as officers, retired military personnel, and base family members. It also serves hungry Boy Scouts! With our bellies full, we bid farewell to all the fine men and women serving at Luke AFB, and headed north. But not back home - we were destined for the Ben Avery Shooting Facility.
Once we got to Ben Avery and got checked in, we had a quick safety briefing and I am glad to say that it worked! We had no safety violations the entire time we were there. We setup with basic targets at 25 yards, and the Scouts opened fire with their .22s. We kept our focus on tight shot groups and accurate shooting, and the boys who were already qualified with Rifle Shooting got even better. We had three Scouts that had not yet qualified and I am happy to report that all three of them qualified quickly and were able to move onto some of the shooting games. Our Luke AFB guide Corey was even able to join us for a little while! Everyone got lots of trigger time as the Scouts shot up almost 1500 rounds of .22 ammo. When we were all done, the Scouts did a fine job of cleaning up the range and securing their own shooting lanes. Then we jumped in the cars and headed back home - tired but happy.
Troop 95 wants to thank Corey and all the servicemen and women serving our Country at Luke Air Force Base and around the world. We owe you our freedom, and you have our gratitude.
(make sure to check back soon, as there will be more pictures from different cameras uploaded)
