Student leadership group visits base

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Alan Abernethy
  • 916th Public Affairs Office
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Members of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce junior leadership program recently visited Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in an effort to become more familiar with the professional organizations in the local area.

The visiting group was comprised of high school juniors who are "truly the cream of the crop in Wayne County," said Lou Cook, Chamber of Commerce leadership program organizer. The goal of the visit was to expose the students to opportunities here, so that after college they might consider returning, to work and raise a family.

The visit included a tour of the 916th Air Refueling Wing ramp and KC-135R Stratotanker, 4th Security Forces Squadron Dog Kennels, 4th Fighter Wing Fire Department, and a demonstration of the KC-135R Stratotanker simulator.

The students enjoyed every aspect of the tour...especially the simulator, said Cook.

The group also had the opportunity to draw from the experience of Senior MSgt. Donna Lorenz, 916th logistics plans superintendent, who retires later this year after more than 30 years of service to the Air Force.

"In my final year, it's important that I affect positive change," said Lorenz. "Speaking with the group was a great opportunity for me to share my passion for leadership and reflect on the things I've learned."

The group was very receptive and grateful for the experience, said Cook, adding that the visit definitely sparked their interest in what happens here on base.

"They were very vocal and enthusiastic about what all they enjoyed and how much they had learned," said Cook. "The impression you have made on these youngsters lasts a lifetime."