The 512^th Airlift Wing hosted a unique deployment Saturday, 25 August 2001 during their annual Employer Appreciation Day at the Dover Air Force Base. Thirty-seven employers of National Guard and Reserve members were "activated" for the event that treats employers to a mock mobility line, a C-5 orientation flight and a Base tour.

Employers arrived at the Air Mobility Museum early Saturday for breakfast and were welcomed by Brig. Gen. Peter K. Sullivan, 512^th Airlift Wing (USAFR) commander and Col. Scott Wuesthoff, 436^th Airlift Wing (USAF) commander. Both commanders spoke about the unique and vital role of the Guard and Reserve in our nation’s defense, particularly in light of current operations tempo.

Gene Hebert, Chairman of the Delaware Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, and other ESGR members also welcomed the group. ESGR is a component of the Office of the Secretary of Defense whose civilian and military members volunteer to improve Guard and Reserve awareness among employers through an organization of State committees.

Following the welcoming comments, the employers were transported to a mock mobility line where they were issued dog tags and received briefings on topics including force protection, proper donning of a chemical warfare suit, and the cultural and religious customs of Saudi Arabia.

For Don Foley, of MBNA and the employer of Tech. Sgt. Donald Meyer, 512^th Component Repair Squadron, the mobility line was the most interesting part of the day, he said. "You realize how serious this is when they hand you a form for your last will and testament." Other employers were equally impressed, and both BG Sullivan and Mr. Hebert received many favorable comments after the event.

The employers then experienced an "activation" where everyone was loaded onto a bus to be escorted to the flight line where "their" aircraft awaited. After a safety and aircraft briefing by the crew, the employers took off. Once in the air they were allowed to visit the flight deck for a birds eye view of the coast of Kitty Hawk, N.C., home to the humble origins of aviation.

"It was fascinating – the view from the cockpit, and seeing how they use all the equipment," said Lynne Dyer, of the Delaware Division of Public Health. "This definitely gives you a respect for those in uniform."

Upon their return to Dover Air Force Base, employers lunched at the museum while listening to Delaware Lt. Gov. John Carney speak about his support for the service members at Dover Air Force Base.

Each employer was presented a "goodie bag’ of Air Force Reserve and Army National Guard memorabilia including a hat, T-shirt and pens. Sullivan also presented certificates of appreciation detailing thanks not only for the support of the 512^th reservists and the Dover mission, but also their support of the greater Air Force mission.

The day concluded with a tour of the port mortuary and aerial port.