National Guard Tour Presents an Option Beyond High School

 At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming, our mission calls us to inspire all youth, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. To accomplish this, the Club utilizes purposeful programming based on three priority outcomes: Academic Success, Good Character & Citizenship, and Healthy Lifestyles.

When we visited the National Guard Armory in Casper recently, we learned how our country’s military also values a potential recruit that has a plan for the future, a willingness to serve others, and a commitment to making healthy choices.

Staff Sergeant Derek Smith served as our guide as 14 youth in the Passport to Manhood program and Junior Staff listened, observed and asked questions about the Guard and service in the military.

“The goal of the trip was to foster an interest in the military. It aligns directly with our Academic Success priority outcome that calls youth to graduate from high school ready for college, trade school, military or employment,” said Daniel Uptain, BGCCW youth development professional.

SSgt. Smith made it truly a hands on experience by allowing the youth to look at the weapons, climb behind the wheel of a Hum Vee, and try on protective equipment. Some kids even accepted the challenge of a little boot camp PT (physical training).

He told our members that boot camp was challenging but the most difficult part wasn’t the physical part. He the hardest part was learning to trust someone you’ve never met.

Just as the Club teaches members about the duty of service to others in our community and honoring our country through civic duties, the kids learned that the Guard also serves community and country by protecting us overseas and jumping in to help during natural disasters at home.

Thank you to the Wyoming Army National Guard and Staff Sergeant Smith for allowing us to visit the Armory.