Marine aviation hosts next generation of aviation enthusiasts at the Pentagon

Photo By Maj. Jorge Hernandez | Marines from the Department of Aviation hosted members from the Aviation Youth Mentoring Program at the Pentagon on Oct. 22, 2022. The group explored exhibits throughout the Pentagon and learned about the building’s history and components of each service branch.  

WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES

10.27.2022

Story by Maj. Jorge Hernandez 

Communication Directorate             

HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS – Marines from the Department of Aviation hosted members from the Aviation Youth Mentoring Program (AYMP) at the Pentagon on Oct. 22.

The Marines hosted nine members and four chaperones from the AYMP for the first time, exploring exhibits throughout the Pentagon and learning about the building’s history and components of each service branch. The group also stopped by the 9/11 Memorial to learn about and remember the courageous acts of heroism that occurred on that fateful day.

“We were thrilled to show these mentees around the building and talk about exciting moments in the history of aviation,” said Lt. Col. Ben Price, the aircrew programs section head for the Department of Aviation. “Their passion for flying at such a young age is inspiring. If we continue to cultivate this passion, the future of aviation is bright.”

The pairing of Marine aviation with AYMP not only helps close the civil-military divide, but also helps expose the mentees to a multitude of opportunities in the field of aviation.

“I never knew about these type of programs while I was in high school, so being exposed to [AYMP] for the first time was a great experience,” said Cpl. Andrew Zielinski, who is part of the aviation support coordination office for Marine aviation. “This type of program would have provided me with a wide perspective of all the aviation specialties in the Marine Corps before I enlisted.”

Marine aviation takes pride in volunteering their time to the civilian community while providing mentorship and insight that leads individuals to greater opportunities in the aviation field.

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• Date Taken: 10.27.2022
• Date Posted: 10.27.2022 09:10
• Story ID: 432097
• Location: WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, US