Malmstrom's Little Warriors 'deploy' in support of Operation BOG

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Eydie Sakura
  • 341st Space Wing Public Affairs Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Patriotic-themed music filled the gymnasium and invited each child walking into the Youth Center during "Operation Be Our Guest" Aug. 17 at Malmstrom. More than 70 children and 30 volunteers packed the gymnasium to simulate a child-friendly "pre-deployment" processing line titled "Passport to Fun." 

Upon entry, each child was given a passport to show at various stations to participate in different activities. 

The children got their faces painted in camouflage by volunteers from the security forces group; received prayer books and candy from the chaplains; tried ravioli and beef enchilada meals-ready-to-eat, or MREs; and bounced around on a jumpy castle for instance. 

"This event was designed to increase awareness of deployments because children are affected too," said Cindy Berg, Youth Programs director. "[Deployments] can be scary for kids, but we're putting a fun spin on it. [The 341st Services Squadron] wanted to show parents and the military community how we support them while they're deployed." 

People from across the base stepped up to help volunteer their time and services at the event. 

"My supervisor asked for volunteers for Operation BOG," said Airman John Howry, 341st Missile Security Forces Squadron. "I figured it would be a good time and it's a great way to interact with the little kids." 

Each station the children visited were full of free toys and treats to carry away in their woodland green bags. At the finance station, they were given chocolate candy coins as their money. One Little Warrior even asked, "Can I eat this or do I have to save it?" 

The security forces group HUMVEE just outside the Youth Programs Center was transformed from a patrol vehicle to a make-shift jungle gym swarming with children. Their excitement crawling through the doors and talking on a radio was evident, as one child proclaimed from within a web of other children, "Woo-hoo!" 

In addition to Operation BOG, the services squadron hosts a variety of other deployment-related events this fall. The next BOG event is Sept. 8 at the Grizzly Bend Club.  Participants can enjoy free food and games; Outdoor Recreation offers half-off all rental items, and Aces Bowling Center has a pizza and bowling special throughout September and October; the Elkhorn Diner is having a dinner and a movie night Sept. 28 and Oct. 19; and on Thursdays, a free car wash is available noon to 3 p.m. for spouses of deployed servicemembers. 

To learn more about upcoming services events, visit their Web site at www.341services.com.