Air Force District of Wasington –
A coveted place to be during the 2010 Joint Service Open House at Joint Base Andrews was the Army's latest interactive recruiting tool, the 'Virtual Army Experience.'
An estimated 2,100 visitors, some standing in line up to an hour for the opportunity to take the 25-minute tour, entered during the three-day air show.
The Virtual Army Experience is a high-tech, innovative, mobile exhibit that allows participants to interact in a hands-on, action-packed and informative test drive of the U.S. Army.
"The VAE allowed me to see firsthand what soldiers experience in today's combat environment," said Dick Riordan, a Virginia resident.
The core of the 19,500 square-foot exhibit is the 'America's Army' computer game rendered with state-of-the-art Army simulation technology to create a life-sized and networked virtual world.
After receiving a mission briefing, teams begin the tour. They must rely on teamwork, communication skills, rules of engagements, leadership decisions and high-tech equipment to complete the tour.
The VAE also involves simulation of a convoy operation, housed entirely inside an inflatable tent. Participants man life-sized combat vehicles, such as the Humvee or a UH-60 Blackhawk and shoot electronic M-4 rifles at screens featuring enemies who fire back, adding a realistic combat touch to the mission.
The VAE is accompanied by basic military training drill sergeants who give participants waiting in line a "hands on" glimpse of Army basic training. The drill sergeants conduct team-building events designed to motivate VAE participants and enhance self-esteem. More importantly, they stress the benefits of education and discuss the importance of setting and reaching goals.
"VAE and the basic training drill sergeants are an excellent opportunity for teens and civilians to see the Army mission firsthand," said Staff Sgt. Jermarcus Nettles, one of the VAE travelling drill sergeants.
"Totally awesome," is how Alexander, Va., teenager Jacob Artero, who completed the VAE and basic drill sergeant challenge, described the experience.
"The VAE has been a part of the Army recruiting team since 2007 and an integral part in helping the Army attain its recruiting goals," said Sgt. Jason Sechrist, a health care specialist travelling with the VAE.