CAFB gives cadets ‘motivation’

COLUMBUS AFB, Miss. - It’s not every day college students are given the opportunity to work closely with Air Force pilots, but the Virginia Tech Air Force ROTC detachment was given that chance when instructor pilots from the 37th and 48th flying training squadrons from Columbus AFB, Miss., took nine pilots, five T-6 Texan IIs, T-1A Jayhawk, aircrew flight equipment personnel, and the 14th Medical Group’s flight surgeon to the university Feb. 8-11. The pilots also helped meet Air Education and Training Command’s vision of “Recruit Next” by recruiting, training, and educating Air Force ROTC cadets on flying missions, and primarily on the Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training mission at CAFB. Capt. Andrew Barstow, 37th FTS assistant chief of training, said the experience gives cadets a better realization of what they’re getting into, and will help them make more informed decisions about AF careers. Having the IPs from CAFB “gives relevancy, excitement and motivation” to the cadets, said Lt. Col. Barry Burton, VA Tech AFROTC commander. “It’s a hands-on actual view of what it’s like from a pilot’s perspective on the lifestyle and experience.” (Source: CAFB 02/14/19)