Reservist mentors kids

  • Published
  • By Tim Norton
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  Each year, Miami-Dade County schools asks professionals from the community to spend a day talking to kids about their jobs, life experiences and to present a variety of interesting and exciting career opportunities.

For 120 fourth and fifth grade students at Irving and Beatrice Peskoe elementary school, Senior Master Sgt. Tony Romero was that person.

The 31-year Air Force Reserve veteran was one of many guest speakers at the school's Career Day on April 20. As superintendent of the 482nd Operation Group's aircrew flight equipment section, Sergeant Romero is directly responsible for the safety and well being of pilots that fly Homestead ARB's F-16's.

The Miami native spent time talking to students and demonstrating the operation of numerous pieces of flight equipment and survival gear his section is responsible for maintaining. He also answered questions about careers in the military and the importance of staying in school.

"I love doing this stuff, these kids are our future," said Sergeant Romero. "Kids are kids, they have so many questions and just need someone to listen to them and hear what's on their mind - it's always a pleasure."