Laughlin CGOC helps Del Rio JROTC

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. William M. Tyrrell
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, TEXAS --  Every Friday since September, company grade officers from Laughlin lead a workout at the Del Rio High School to develop the Air Force Junior ROTC.

"The military community wants to be involved with the local community," said 1st Lt. Christian Ocasio, Laughlin Company Grade Officers' Council treasurer. "Our intent is to motivate and become helpful role models to Junior ROTC students, while giving them insight on the opportunities they may have in the future."

Starting at 7:50 a.m., the Laughlin officers meet at the Junior ROTC building to discuss what training they will be doing with the students.

"Each week I change the workout but we usually try to do a combination of cardio and calisthenics," said 1st Lt. Ashley Peterson, Laughlin CGOC president. "Occasionally, we'll do a game or sport to break things up and integrate some fun activities into our physical fitness program."

While the CGOs push themselves and Junior ROTC students to their fitness limits, the bonds formed go to a more personal level.

"The students always enjoy having personnel from the base come visit," said retired Lt. Col. Benavides, Del Rio High School Junior ROTC commander. "The CGOs offer a different, younger perspective that the students can better relate to. The interaction gives the students a sense of belonging and acceptance."

According the CGOs who have participated in the weekly workouts, they are not the only ones who have made a difference.

"The students are making a difference for the CGOs" said Peterson. "It's easy to get wrapped up in mundane concerns and just be worried about yourself, your career, your life etc. However, when you turn your focus outward and try to help others, it helps you become a better person in ways that you didn't even know about."

For more information on how you can help, contact 1st Lt. Peterson at ashley.peterson.5@us.af.mil.