Air Force outreach programs strive to build long term relationships

Published April 19, 2012
By Maj Andrea Pitruzzella
914th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION, N.Y. -- Engineering and aerospace students from Williamsville East High School toured the base April 19 as part of the Recruiting after Next/Community Outreach program designed to build relationships between the Air Force and prospective applicants not yet age qualified to enlist.

"Normally a recruiting event would be focused on applicants that are qualified, with the goal of getting them to enlist," said Staff Sgt. Orion LaMontagne, recruiter with the 313th Recruiting Squadron which covers active duty recruiting for the state of New York and a small part of northern Pennsylvania. "With RANCO, it is more about building long term relationships that will positively affect recruitment several years down the road," LaMontagne added.

Hosted by the 914th Airlift Wing, the tour included a static aircraft display of a C-130H2 Hercules, a visit to the engine shop and an explosive ordinance disposal demonstration. This tour was a part of the 914th Airlift Wing's base tour program designed to inform the community about the opportunities available through the Air Force.

Also included in the group were Senior Airman Matthew Anthow, electrical systems journeyman from Bolling AFB, Md., and Airman 1st Class Kyle Moody, a loadmaster from Joint Base Charleston, S.C., participants of the Air Force's Recruiter Assistance Program . The RAP program allows members of the active duty Air Force up to 12 days of non-chargeable leave to assist recruiters in their hometown or place of previous residence in bringing the Air Force story to local high school and college students.