OSTRAVA, Czech Republic -- U.S. Airmen from the 307th Bomb Wing visited students across the Moravian-Silesian Region this week as part of community outreach efforts during NATO Days on Sept. 19, 2025.
The school visits are part of a broader schedule of events tied to NATO Days, one of Europe’s largest security and air shows, hosted annually at Leoš Janáček Ostrava Airport. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the event, drawing participation from more than 20 allied nations.
The visits included presentations on U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress operations followed by question-and-answer sessions, serving to familiarize Allied audiences with the USAF mission set.
Nine U.S. Air Force Airmen volunteered to speak with students across six local high schools, highlighting the importance of international cooperation and careers in aviation and defense.
“It was a great experience to be able to speak to the teenagers face-to-face. We were able to share what we do and how we operate,” said Lt. Col. Jeremy Holt, 343rd Bomb Squadron Commander. “They were excited to share their facilities and how the schools in the local area operate.”
The schools also hosted activities for the Airmen to participate in such as basketball and opening a car with a tool known as the “jaws of life.”
During the visit, students engaged with pilots, maintainers and support personnel, many of whom shared personal stories about serving in the Air Force Reserve and deploying around the world.
Students asked questions from the challenges of piloting a B-52H to advice on pursuing military careers and balancing service with family life.
“It was great being able to talk to students, I didn’t know what to expect. Doing a Q&A with the students was eye opening especially when it was about life in general and asked about advice,” said Staff Sgt. Madison Stephenson, 307th Bomb Wing logistics planner. “I would do it again and enjoyed the school visits.”