Base helps cadets dress for success

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Nicholas Caceres
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  The Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program at Booker T. Washington Senior High School in Miami has partnered with Homestead Air Reserve Base for an Airman Battle Uniform clothing drive.

Due to lack of funding, the cadets are attempting to raise enough donated ABU's for the entire unit through the clothing drive.

"The are hard working and dedicated," said Senior Master Sgt. Karen Spencer,  event organizer. "They're excited to be able to participate in special community service projects scheduled for next year."

As a former Fort Lauderdale, Fla., JROTC instructor herself, Spencer describes programs like JROTC as a great motivational tool for young people to familiarize them with military culture and tradition.

"This is a great program for young people interested in the military," said Spencer. "Many JROTC cadets go on to have successful careers in the military after high school."

The ABU clothing drive and will continue accepting donations through the October Unit Training Assembly. All serviceable ABU uniforms are accepted, including socks, belts, hats and accessories.

"We're hoping to get 50 ABUs, preferably stripped, by the end of this event," said Spencer. "If they're not stripped, we'll do it for you. For those not able to bring ABUs during a UTA, I'm willing to pick them up."

For those interested in helping the cadets, serviceable ABU's can be brought to Senior Master Sgt. Karen Spencer at the 482nd Operations Group Career Advisor's office in building 596, room 105, or, for more information, people can call Spencer at 786-415-6016 or 954-610-7139.