JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- The 3rd Munitions Squadron hosted their second annual Family Orientation Day Aug. 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., leading families through nine of their 13 worksites at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.
This event offered family and friends of the 3rd MUNS a glimpse into the world of munitions as they traveled around JBER by bus touring multiple worksites.
Each stop provided a chance to become more informed about what it means to be a part of the 3rd MUNS. Learning about handling, storing, transporting, arming and disarming non-nuclear weapons systems is no small thing. These stops provided a chance to see firsthand how the 3rd MUNS airmen work together towards their mission of fostering a culture of compliance while providing lethal combat capability to ensure global readiness.
This year, more than 30 participants were able to enjoy the event. It was the first time many of the service members’ children had a chance to experience some of the daily activities their parents do while at work. They had opportunities to climb on heavy equipment, attempt to manually load 20mm rounds into the Universal Ammunition Loading System, and open the heavy doors on the igloo-style ammunition storage bunkers.
In addition to seeing firsthand what their service members’ work environments look like, they learned about unique safety measures, protocol and tools used to accomplish the mission were also able to be viewed.
“At past military functions, many of the members’ spouses would approach me, with a lot of questions about our job- what we do and how we do it,” said Tech. Sgt. Krystle M. Quintana, 3rd MUNS munitions training section chief. “During one of these discussions, it was brought up that it might be a really nice idea if they would get a chance to see it for themselves.”
Likewise, Rebecca Osborne, wife of Airman 1st Class Joseph P. Osborne from the 3rd MUNS stockpile management shop, had her own concerns when first learning of her husband’s job.
“At first hearing about my husband’s job working with explosives, I was nervous about it being dangerous and him getting hurt,” Osborne said. “This event gave me an opportunity to go out and see what he’s doing and how he’s doing it. Now after seeing how things are done, I feel a lot better; I didn’t realize how many safety checks and protocols there really are. I thought the tour was very thorough and informative.”
Many of the questions asked had to do with safety and the dangers of what the 3rd MUNS airmen do, Quintana said.
“There are many safety measures and precautions that are done as part of operations for munitions that are absolute musts.” Quintana said. “100-percent accountability is required at all times.”
After the success of the first two Family Orientation Days, the squadron hopes to continue the event annually.
“My hope for this event is that it’ll grow,” said Quintana. “I want members to invite as many friends and family as possible. It’s our chance, once a year, to show people what we do.”