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Recruiters team with minor league team

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Ray Wynn
  • 333rd Recruiting Squadron
MELBOURNE, Fla. --  The Brevard Manatees and U.S. Air Force's 333rd Recruiting Squadron gave an audience of elementary and middle school students the opportunity to learn about commitment to country April 15 by teaming up with a local minor league baseball team. 

The Manatees, a minor league affiliate of the Washington Nationals, invited more than 3,000 children to Space Coast Stadium to enjoy an early morning baseball game and watch 47 of the newest members of the Air Force take the oath of enlistment. 

Administering the oath was Col. Michael Brice, the 369th Recruiting Group commander. Colonel Brice also threw out the ceremonial first pitch of the game. 

"This is the first oath of enlistment I have given, and I feel honored to be able to do this while with the 333rd RCS Sharks," Colonel Brice said. "Having the (delayed entry program) members participate in events like this keeps them motivated and committed to our Air Force."

The oath of enlistment is recited by every member of the Air Force not only as a commitment to the Air Force, but a commitment to the nation.

Mary Quattlebaum, a 2005 Cocoa Beach High School graduate, said her decision to join the Air Force came at an early age. 

"My mom did four years, and my dad just retired, so I grew up in the Air Force. After I graduated, I went to California for a few years to travel and try some other things, however, I never felt satisfied," she said. "The Air Force has been something I knew I wanted to be a part of since I was young. I will be part of something that is bigger than myself and have a world of opportunities in education and travel." 

The pre-game activities provided to the young audience by the squadron also included the singing of the national anthem by Tech. Sgt. Antonio McCloud, a 333rd RCS personnel specialist. Between the fifth and sixth innings, squadron members launched Air Force T-shirts, key chains and miniature baseballs to the youngsters. Also, a mini-replica of the Air Force's F-16 Fighting Falcon painted in the colors of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbird Demonstration Team was driven on the field by Staff Sgt. Jeff Storman to a chorus of cheers. 

"Events like this keep my guys motivated and looking forward to the sense of family and camaraderie they will be a part of once they enter active duty," Staff Sgt. Cindi Hernandez said of her 18 DEP members participating in the activities.