08/13/2026 -- Military children got a firsthand look at the deployment process during Operation Bug Out at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, with Airmen and volunteers from across the installation helping guide them through the experience.
The day began with an oath of enlistment before participants moved through a mock personnel deployment function line. They collected required signatures and received backpacks, school supplies and other items along the way. They then boarded a bus to their “deployed” location.
“The Operation Bug Out back-to-school mock deployment event was a resounding success,” said Tech. Sgt. Brian West, 4th Force Support Squadron Military and Family Readiness Center readiness NCO. “It brought together 61 military children and 20 supporting agencies from both military and civilian organizations in a powerful display of unity.”
Once there, participants continued their mission with hands-on demonstrations from Airmen representing a variety of career fields. They explored military vehicles, tried on gear and learned more about the different roles Airmen perform across the installation.
The event gave participants a youth-friendly look at several stages of the deployment process, including an intelligence briefing, out-processing, deployment and a homecoming.
“Thanks to the immense generosity of both the military and civilian sectors, the event secured 100 donated backpacks alongside an abundance of school supplies, food, drinks and snacks,” West said. “This joint effort not only equipped our military youth with the essential tools for academic success, but also reinforced the deep, enduring bond between our service members’ families and the surrounding community.”
After completing their mission, each participant received a certificate of achievement recognizing their successful “deployment.”
“Our military families are an essential part of our mission, and that includes our children,” said Col. Jaina Donberg, 4th Fighter Wing deputy commander. “Operation Bug Out gives them an opportunity to experience what deployment looks like and helps them understand the role their loved ones play in keeping our Air Force ready.”
Operation Bug Out gave military children a fun way to learn more about the people, equipment and processes that help keep the mission moving while gaining a better understanding of what deployment can look like for their military family members.
The event also highlighted the support military families receive from both the installation and the surrounding community, with Airmen and civilian organizations coming together to help military children feel supported as they prepare for the upcoming school year.