The C-17 Globemaster III's impressive size was easily matched by the awe and wonder of more than 100 Cub Scouts during a March 20 visit to the JBLM-McChord Field flight line.

"You could see the awe in their eyes," said Carla Bench, the cubmaster of Pack 552 from Puyallup.  "Everything about the plane - its size and abilities - fascinated them."

The experience was made possible by the Western Air Defense Sector and the 62nd Airlift Wing, and provided the Cub Scouts from Puyallup and Pack 621 from Graham the chance to bring to life the Scouts' monthly theme of "Take Flight" and honor the courage of Orville and Wilbur Wright in accomplishing their dream of flight.

Helping to make the young Scouts' visit a success were more than 30 Air Force, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard volunteers who assisted by offering various presentations, providing flight line security and escorting the Scouts and their families in and around the C-17.

"Many parents commented on the enthusiasm and professionalism displayed by the volunteers," said Lt. Col. Dan Russ, WADS staff judge advocate and the driving force for the event.  "Their passion for our country, the Air Force and aviation knowledge was admired by all in attendance."

One of the volunteers viewed the opportunity as a way of giving back to the Cub Scouts.

"It was a great opportunity to help kids experience what flying offers," said Capt. Matt Oliver, a pilot with the 7th Airlift Squadron from Charleston Air Force Base, S.C., during a telephone interview.

An Eagle Scout, Oliver said the Scouts' emphasis of service and volunteerism eventually led him to join the Air Force.

But what really struck him about his experiences as a volunteer with the Cub Scouts were their expressions of wonder and awe.

"I cannot get over their repeatedly saying ‘Oh, cool,'" said Oliver.  "I really liked hearing that as they checked out the tires, the wings and the flight deck.  Their attitude was impressive."

Tim Garber, the chief executive officer for the Pacific Harbor's Scouts Council, said the day was a great experience for all.

"It was amazing," he said.  "It was awesome to see the Air Force team in action."  

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