917th Airman builds warriors from ground up

James Whitaker, activities therapy coordinator, East Texas Medical Center/Behavioral Health Center observes cadets from the TYLER JOINT FORCE Battalion of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets Corps take part in an exercise called “Nitro Crossing” at the Behavioral Health Center in Tyler, Texas, August 15, 2009. The exercise, which involves swinging on a rope across and expanse to their teammates, who are standing on a two foot by two foot platform, is used to enhance the planning process and trust between the cadets. The exercise also required the cadets, at some point, to get a jug of water over the expanse to the teammates without spilling a drop. The exercise, which proved to be very difficult to accomplish, will also benefit those cadets who decide to join the U.S. Military in the future. One of the objectives of the NSCC is to present the advantages and prestige of a military career, and to increase the potential for advancement of those cadets who may wish to join the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard or Merchant Marine. (Courtesy photo)