A group of international au pairs were given the opportunity to gain firsthand exposure to life on a U.S. military base. Au pairs from South Africa, Colombia, Brazil and Mexico were able to learn about the history and customs that are unique to the military in American culture.
Through a guided tour of the Peoria Air National Guard Base in Peoria, Illinois, the au pairs were able to learn about the machines and equipment, as well as interact with the men and women from the armed forces stationed at the base. The au pairs were given the opportunity to sit in the cockpit of a C130, and learn about the features of it and the types of items it transports. They also witnessed a ‘Fini’ Flight, which is a loop retiring pilots perform before they officially retire. The retirees exited the plane and were met with a barrage of water from friends, family and coworkers.
The visit was inspired by Lesley, an au pair from Mexico, whose host parents work on the base.
“My fellow au pairs and I had the opportunity to tour the base where my host parents work. It was an amazing experience and I enjoyed learning more about them and what they do,” said Lesley. “For me it is really amazing to see what is achieved by working as a team.”
“I was so excited when Erica, a host mom that works at the Air Force Base, suggested we tour the base for our monthly meeting. The military is something many Americans are proud of, so it was neat for the au pairs to be able to experience touring the C130 and hearing about the role of the Air Force,” said Local Childcare Consultant Kim Peterson, who organized the excursion.