Air Show pilots visit Coshocton Elementary
COSHOCTON – The air show started a little early for fifth and sixth graders at Coshocton Elementary School. On Friday, Sept. 16, two F/A-18 Navy air pilots and their crew came to tell a little bit about what they do in the Navy and to answer questions from the students.
The students were amazed to learn that the F/A-18 planes can fly at 1800 mph but they assured the kids they wouldn’t be going quite that fast at the air show this weekend, which will be this Saturday and Sunday at the Richard Downing Airport.
“Every time we come to an air show, the whole purpose is to make our presence felt in the community,” said Joe Waidelich, lieutenant in the US Navy. “Talking with the kids is the most fun and the most important to do. It’s nice to hear their questions and answer them and maybe motivate someone to be in our shoes someday.”
Rick Merrill contacted Principal Dave Skelton at the Coshocton Elementary School about a week ago to ask if he would be interested in having the pilots and their crew talk with the kids. He said the kids were excited to see the pilots and crew when he told them that they would be coming on Friday.
“It’s one of the options as a path in their future for a career that is available for all Americans,” said Skelton. “It’s important for us to expose our children to these opportunities in the United States as they look to their future.”
One of the reasons Skelton wanted the pilots and crew to speak with the students is because schools are encouraging students to consider colleges and their career path early in their academic career. Teachers and students had discussions later on what types of jobs are performed in the Navy.
“It still holds true that individuals going to college have a better opportunity to not just have a successful job, but to be able to transition in their life to different types of jobs,” said Skelton.
The pilots and crew spent about an hour answering questions and spending time with the kids. At the end, the kids said they were excited to go to the air show this weekend.
Tyler Stiemke, member of the crew said the air show is always a big hit with the kids.
“To see the faces of the kids before and after the air show, it’s just awesome,” he said.
Category: Education
