Students from Naval Technical Training Center (NTTC) Lackland gained first-hand security experience during the "Wings Over South Texas" air show held at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, April 18-19.

Students, 80 in all, from the Navy's Master-at-Arms (MA) "A" school stood alongside NAS security department personnel during the show. This opportunity allowed them to experience for themselves how to safeguard a perimeter, direct traffic and conduct personnel inspections while working with dedicated security professionals.

"This was a great opportunity to experience what I will be doing in the fleet," said Seaman Recruit Briana Davidson. "I wish something like this could be placed into the curriculum so all future MAs (Masters-at-Arms) can have this experience as part of training."

MA "A" school spans a total of seven weeks during which students learn and develop skills in the areas of security force fundamentals, physical security, law enforcement, weapons proficiency and more.

"This was a great opportunity to allow the students to get a taste of what they will be doing in the very near future, as well as support the master-at-arms in Corpus Christi," said NTTC Lackland staff member Master Chief Master-at-Arms Denals Bland. "Events like this do not occur often or at all for some bases, but the experience these students are gaining will last long after they leave "A" school."

NTTC Lackland's chain of command and staff saw this as a perfect occasion to enhance training and provide an opportunity for Sailors to give back to the community.

"It was exciting to volunteer for such an event, as well as have the chance to see a place outside of San Antonio," said Seaman Luis Luna. "I feel better prepared for when I get to Bahrain and stand watch as a rated master-at-arms."

Students gained worthwhile insight as to the value and importance of community relations as it relates to the mission of the Navy security forces.

"It was amazing to interact with so many different people, especially the kids," said Seaman Stephanie Chisholm. "They seem to look up to us as role models, which makes me realize the importance of always conducting myself in a professional manner."

The Center for Security Forces is the parent command for Naval Technical Training Center Lackland. The Center provides specialized training to more than 28,000 students each year. It has 14 training locations across the U.S. and around the world.

For more information about the Center for Security Forces, visit us at www.navy.mil/local/csf.

For more news from the Center for Security Forces, visit us at www.navy.mil.

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