HUNTER ARMY AIRFIELD, Ga. - Students of Richmond Hill's Modern U.S. Military History class got a hands-on education when they visited the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, April 8, at Hunter Army Airfield.

"We are currently studying World War II on up so this fits in with studying more modern day wars and the battles we've been in," said Russ Carpenter, the class teacher. "Some of these aircraft were used in the military battles we're learning about. This gives the students a firsthand experience."

Students had the opportunity to talk with aviators from the 3rd CAB as they climbed into Black Hawks, Kiowa Warriors and Chinooks during the tour.

"I'm really into military history and learning about different tactics and generals," said Owen Graham, a senior who chose to take the elective class twice. "I like being able to see the helicopters and getting to see how the troops use their equipment and their capabilities."

At the Black Hawk station, Spc. Jarrod Wright, a crew chief with Company C, 4th Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, 3rd CAB, encouraged the students to climb into the pilot chairs and try on their helmets. Between photo ops he answered questions about his job and the CAB's most recent deployment to Afghanistan.

"I think it's important for them to know we're not just a war machine," said Spc. Wright. "Sometimes they don't get to see the whole concept so this is an opportunity for us to show them, at a young age, what we do."