MACA visited by Georgia Army National Guard

On Friday, October 20th, students at Mountain Area Christian Academy (MACA) had the privilege of watching a UH-60L (Blackhawk) and a UH-1 (Huey) helicopter land in front of their school. The helicopters were participating in the Andrews, NC Air Show the following day. The helicopters and the Georgia National Guardsmen made four different visits to area schools. The six guardsmen were: Major Dwayne Wilson, Michael Corey, Lee Harrell, Peter Demdow, Michal Viskup and Jim Brennan. Four of the guardsmen were with the Black Hawk, and two were with the MedVac copter, which is stationed in Winder, Georgia. Major Dwayne Wilson, a 1987 Murphy High School graduate, spent time with students allowing them an unique hands-on opportunity of seeing both helicopters.

Major Wilson spoke to the assembled school after the landing and inspection of the helicopters. He explained that the First Aviation Group is a part of the Army Reserve in Georgia, which has 10,000 active members in Georgia. He explained some of the functions that each helicopter unit may perform. The MedVac helicopters transport injured personnel. The First Aviation Group is also assigned to Governor Sonny Perdue.

Students were allowed to ask Major Wilson and Sgt. Brennan questions about their work and the units they fly. Sgt Brennan served in Viet Nam and had a wealth of knowledge about flying. Mr. Steven Clagg, Principal, in addressing the guardsmen said: "We appreciate you and love you for what you are doing for our country. You are our heroes."

The First Aviation Group flew away from the school parking to visit the three schools in the area. Mountain Area Christian Academy wants to give a special thanks to Erik Brinke, Director of Economic Development and Byron McCombs, Special Assistant, at Blue Ridge Mountain EMC for their help in arranging the Georgia Air National Guard visit.