Servicemembers celebrate Seuss with Students

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Stephanie Englar
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, MISS --  Airmen from Columbus Air Force Base read classic Dr. Seuss stories to West Lowndes Elementary School students March 1 for Read Across America and to celebrate Dr. Seuss's birthday.

The servicemember volunteers not only read to the children but also talked about their jobs and life in the Air Force. With hands in the air, the students were able to ask the Airmen any questions about the Air Force that came to mind.

"Volunteering in the community is a great way to put your life in perspective, and fielding second grader questions is hilarious," said First Lt. Jacob Breth, 41st Flying Training Squadron.

When Breth pulled a pilot helmet out of a bag, the children's faces lit up as they took turns putting the helmet, which was way too big for them, down over their heads.

"Apparently the general consensus among elementary school children is that every Air Force aircraft has missiles, and there was a disturbing fascination with what happens when student pilots vomit while flying," said Breth.

Students were given the chance to decorate hallways and classroom doors in a Dr. Seuss theme before the event. Several teachers and students surprised the volunteers and other students wearing costumes from The Cat in The Hat and other classic Dr. Seuss characters.

"The event was a great success and a hit with the students," said Capt. William Staley, 14th Student Squadron. "It was very well organized and the team at West Lowndes Elementary School should be proud of this event. More volunteers showed up for this event than they anticipated which shows just how much the community cares about this event."

Many of the teachers from West Lowndes Elementary School were also impressed by the number of volunteers who came out to participate in Read Across America. This was the first opportunity several of the Airmen had to get involved and volunteer at schools in the local community.

"The Airmen who came out were very professional." said Robert Sanders, Principal of West Lowndes Elementary School. "They really did a great job, not just in reading to the children but many went above and beyond in talking to the students and explaining their jobs. I know many of the students had questions about the different military branches, and I feel that they have a better understanding of the Air Force."