FORT KNOX, Ky. - Soldiers from Blackfoot Troop, 6th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, displayed different equipment and vehicles used by the Army, as part of a career day expo for the students at Heartland Elementary School March 22.
The squadron partakes in community events by lending assistance in volunteer groups, visiting schools, and talking with students, offering them a glimpse of the Army life.
“In a lot of communities, the Army is not known outside of movies and commercials,” said Sgt. David Gray. “In areas surrounding Fort Knox, however, there is a support system and a general welcoming of troops. Community events, such as these, affect the working atmosphere in a positive way.”
The soldiers brought a Humvee vehicle, radio equipment, a ghillie camouflage suit, basic combat gear and reconnaissance equipment for students view and use.
Gray said it was more of "show" than "tell" at the event.
“The hardest thing is remembering that they are kids and when you explain things to them, they don't care what the official name is, nor the textbook definition, all they need to know is that it is used by the Army and the effects it has,” added Gray.
No matter the task, the soldiers were motivated for career day largely due to the bright smiles and curiosity the students of Heartland Elementary displayed.
Gray described what gets him motivated for these types of events, “They beam with energy and it rubs off on you when you are around them.”
According to Sgt. 1st Class Shawn Priet, with changes happening in the military, community events are something that should continue.
“I think these events are both beneficial to the community as well as the soldiers,” said Priet. “It shows the local population that we are people just like they are and a side of the military that they rarely get to see. Most importantly, it shows the community that we are there for them.”