SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Team Shaw held Operation Take-Flight at the Chandler Deployment Processing Center here to simulate a deployment to "Shawzakistan" for the children of military members, Oct. 16.

There were 329 children who participated in the event.

Before "deploying," the children went through a processing line to give them an experience similar to their parent's. They received paperwork, simulated immunizations, and a simulated Meals Ready to Eat. They also stopped by stations representing the legal office, finance office, chaplains core, and the Airman & Family Readiness Center. After a deployment briefing, the children were off to Shawzakistan.

"The main purpose for the deployment is to educate and help children understand the deployment process and give them a positive experience of what their mom or dad does when they are headed out the door through a deployment line," said Tech. Sgt. Evan Singleton, 20th Force Support Squadron Airmen and Family Readiness Center NCO.

During their stay at Shawzakistan the children received briefings from 20th Security Forces Squadron Airmen, 20th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighters, as well as other members from the 20th Fighter Wing and U.S. Army Central.

Children were given the opportunity to try on fire protection gear and sit in a fire truck. The 20th CES Explosive Ordnance Disposal Airmen gave the children a chance to see what the equipment they use looks like up close.

"The kids really enjoyed the whole process," said John Kennedy, 20th FSS school liaison officer. "It went extremely well, and Tech. Sgt. Singleton did an outstanding job coordinating this event."

All the children who participated have gained a better understanding of what their parents do and when they prepare for a deployment.