Sergeant aids Scouts’ big bash
January 19, 2011 10:24AM
Freda A. Henderson, an independent duty medical techninician || SUBMITTED photo by Michael Tolzmann.
Article Extras
Updated: May 1, 2011 4:48AM
Air Force Master Sgt. Freda A. Henderson, sister of Emily Love of Crest Hill, attended to the needs of Scouts last year as a medical technician at the 2010 National Scout Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill near Bowling Green, Va.
“I am an enlisted provider,” said Henderson, a 1993 graduate of Thornwood High School in South Holland who also earned a bachelor’s degree in management in 2009 from Bellevue University in Nebraska.
“I see and treat all active duty patients, write prescriptions and dispense medications. I also conduct water testing and public health inspections,” Henderson said.
Nearly 2,000 soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen participated in the jamboree July 26 to Aug. 4, running merit badge stations, putting on informational displays in the Armed Forces Adventure Area, providing traffic-control support, and running a field hospital for minor injuries, among other volunteer duties. Many of the service members arrived on location early and stayed several days after the jamboree to ensure the safety and fun at event celebrating the Boys Scouts of America’s 100th anniversary.
“I didn’t originally volunteer (for the jamboree),” said Henderson, who is assigned to the 99th Medical Group, Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. “My chief asked me ... and I’m so glad he did. It (was) a great experience.”
A record 43,434 people at the jamboree had an opportunity to see and experience a variety of military exhibits, history, activities and units, as well as interact with men and women of the armed forces. It also let service members work in a joint environment, creating and solidifying bonds between individuals and units. Some of them even learned a little about themselves.
“I love the experience of working with other military branches,” said Henderson, who has been in the Air Force for 12 years. “It gives me an insight into their world.”
Whether working directly with the Scouts or providing behind-the-scenes support, Henderson and her fellow service members were the ones who helped make sure the largest event in Scouting went off without a hitch.
Other military news
Navy Seaman Recruit Khyle W. Hosh, a 2009 Dwight Township High School graduate, completed basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes.
Army Staff Sgt. Anthony N. Duran, husband of Misti, who is the daughter of Mark and Cynthia Jones of Coal City, arrived for duty at Burnsville Recruiting Station, Minn.
I am looking for veterans to write about in my column. Call 815-439-5312 or e-mail jedwards@stmedianetwork.com.
