Children at Columbia Heights Elementary School got a close-up look at Soldiers and a few of their activities Nov. 10 when members of the 470th Military Intelligence Brigade visited their school gymnasium.
Approximately 200 students in grades three through five had an opportunity to sample Meals Ready to Eat, experience first aid, have their faces painted in camouflage colors, learn some drill and ceremonies, and observe a retreat ceremony.
The Soldiers, stationed on Fort Sam Houston, belong to an operational brigade that deploys intelligence specialists on missions throughout the world. Ten of the brigade’s Soldiers volunteered to go to the school on their own time.
Nadja Root, a teacher at Columbia Heights and a former U.S. Army chief warrant officer, organized the “hands-on” event to help the students better appreciate what the military does for their country. She said the Soldiers presence meant a great deal to the children at the school, located in south San Antonio’s Harlandale Independent School District.
“They will remember that for the rest of their lives,” said Root. “I was totally floored by the Soldiers’ enthusiasm and wonderful energy with the children – not that I expected any less. They know that the military is a great option as a career choice.”
“The children were excited, and the Soldiers were excited too. Everything went great,” said Master Sgt. Megan Grant, who coordinated the brigade’s volunteers.
Other Soldiers who participated included Chief Warrant Officer Crawford Clark, Chief Warrant Officer Tracey Brooks, Chief Warrant Officer Michael Brooks, Sgts. 1st Class Charles Baldwin and Melanie Locklear, Sgts. Jared Salinas and Jasmyne Grashen, Spcs. Patricia Ceballos and Roberto Lloyd.
