Navy Supports Youth at American Indian Fair

ST. PAUL, Minn. (NNS) -- Sailors met with Native American students at the 21st Annual National American Indian Science and Engineering Fair (NAISEF) in St. Paul, Minn. March 26-28.

Lt. Kenneth Vargas, a Chiqawa Indian and lifetime member of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), spoke to students in grades 5 through 12 about how the military has given him many opportunities to serve the community and represent his tribe.

The Navy's presence at events such as NAISEF appeal to the hereditary roles of the Native Americans, explained Vargas.

"It's a big important part of our culture, the warrior aspect. Our way to serve our warrior spirit is to join the armed forces.

"You have people who come to the AISES and see each other every year, and it forms a community that the students can see," said Vargas. "It brings people together, so you're really dealing with the community. You almost feel like you are helping a nephew and not just another student. I think that's what makes this different."

Navy recruiters served as judeges and helped grade student science and engineering projects, some specific to the Native American tribe locations.

"One project that stands out to me was called 'Rip Wrap,' and you could tell the students really took this project to heart," said Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Amy Jo Smith, a recruiter for Navy Recruiting District Minneapolis, serving as one of the judges. "It is a process where rocks are used to prevent erosion of the shore lines. It affects their area, and it is important to their tribe, so it was personal."

Capt. Kevin Hempel, Navy Operational Support Center Minneapolis commanding officer presented six awards to special category winners during an awards ceremony.

Through NAISEF support, Navy Recruiting continues to encourage youth interested in the fields of math, science and engineering.

For more news from Naval Recruiting District Minneapolis, visit www.navy.mil/local/nrdm/.