Attendees to the Central Texas Air Show will have the opportunity to lace up their boots and take part in a virtual mission at the United States Army’s Virtual Army Experience. The high-tech, team-based mission challenges participants, 13-years and older, to employ teamwork, rules of engagement, leadership and state-of-the-art military technology to successfully complete their mission. The experience, where participants can also play the America’s Army PC game against Real Soldiers, is open to air show attendees Saturday and Sunday of the Airshow,
The Virtual Army Experience provides participants with clear insight into today’s high-tech Army and immerses them in the operational roles of Soldiers. During the 25-minute experience, participants receive a comprehensive mission briefing to prepare them for entering the virtual mission simulator. Participants then fall-in on HMMWV simulators, modeled on the actual vehicles employed by Army Special Forces. Other participants load a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, where they employ light arms and provide air coverage support against enemy forces rendered by the America’s Army game. Upon mission completion, participants receive a debriefing on their performance.
In 2010, the Virtual Army Experience will be accompanied by Basic Training Drill Sergeants, who will give participants waiting in line a “hands on” glimpse of Basic Training. Drill Sergeants will conduct team-building events designed to motivate participants and enhance self-esteem. More importantly, they will stress the benefits of education and discuss the importance of setting and reaching goals.
