WASHINGTON (Nov. 6, 2025) — U.S. Airmen assigned to the 113th Wing, District of Columbia National Guard, volunteered at Langston Golf Course in Washington, D.C., to support Special Olympics D.C. during a youth golf open play event.
Students from several local schools — including Brown Elementary, Woodson High School, Dunbar High School, Roosevelt High School, River Terrace Education Campus, Hendley Middle School, Columbia Heights Education Campus and Raymond Elementary — participated in a day of outdoor activities promoting inclusion, confidence and physical fitness.
The Airmen joined volunteers and instructors to assist with scorekeeping, retrieving golf balls, marking holes and ensuring a safe environment for participants.
“It feels good to help,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Kyle Javier, 113th Civil Engineering Squadron. “The kids are practicing and having fun, and we’re happy to be here supporting them and the community.”
For Airman Basic Gianni Kelly, also with the 113th Wing, the experience was about connecting with youth and encouraging healthy activity.
“It’s good to help the kids get active and have fun,” Kelly said.
Senior Airman Lauren Meggett, 113th Civil Engineering Squadron, felt the event was a reminder of how community engagement strengthens the Guard’s relationship with the public.
“I like doing missions like this,” Meggett said. “It’s important to showcase the National Guard’s diverse skills. It’s not all about battle and combat readiness. I like it when we interact with the community or clean up trash — it makes us more approachable. I don’t want people to be afraid of us. I like getting high fives from kids.”
Airman 1st Class Odunayo Ogundiran, a vehicle maintenance specialist with
the 113th Wing, echoed that sentiment.
“It’s very fulfilling and impactful to be part of such a program,” Ogundiran said. “We’re helping people who need help, and I’m glad it paints a different perspective of the military.”
The D.C. National Guard maintains an ongoing partnership with Special Olympics D.C. Earlier in the week, Guardsmen supported the organization’s youth tennis event at Catholic University.
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, interim commanding general of the District of Columbia National Guard, also visited the event to show support for the partnership between the National Guard and Special Olympics.
Through continued community involvement, members of the D.C. Air National Guard demonstrate that service extends beyond the drill floor — supporting, uplifting and inspiring the communities they serve.
| Date Taken: | 11.06.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 11.12.2025 13:05 |
| Story ID: | 550940 |
| Location: | WASHINGTON D.C, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, US |
| Web Views: | 16 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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