4.C
Aviation Merit Badge
Digital Resource Guide
Visit a military aviation facility. Learn how that facility supports defense and/or civilian activities. Report on the operation and your impressions of the facility.
Visiting a military aviation facility can be an exciting and informative experience. Here’s how you and your merit badge counselor can organize the visit and ensure it meets the requirements while learning about the role of military aviation in defense and civilian support.
U.S. Navy photo by Kristopher Haugh, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Steps to Organize a Visit
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Identify a Nearby Military Aviation Facility
- Common options include Air Force bases, Naval Air Stations, Army Aviation Units, or Coast Guard Air Stations.
- Use the Military Installation Locator to find facilities near you.
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Contact the Base or Facility
- Public Affairs Office (PAO): Reach out to the base’s Public Affairs Office to inquire about group tours. Mention that the purpose is to support Scouts in earning their Aviation merit badge.
- Local Recruiting Offices: Recruiters can sometimes facilitate visits or arrange introductions to aviation units.
- Public Events: Check for existing scheduled events like airshows or Armed Forces Day, which may include additional displays and activities.
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Confirm Visit Details
- Security Requirements: Check for identification and permission forms, as military installations often have strict access protocols.
- Group Size and Age Limits: Verify whether there are restrictions on the number of visitors or minimum age requirements.
- Photography Rules: Ask about restrictions on taking photos or videos.
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Prepare for the Visit
- Basic Military Aviation Overview: Learn about that branch of military, and its aviation capability and roles.
- Learn Military Terminology: Including rank structure, call signs, and radio communication to enhance understanding during the visit.
Potential Activities for Your Tour
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Facility Overview
- Welcome Briefing: The tour typically starts with an introduction by military personnel, explaining the facility’s mission and its role in defense.
- Facility Layout: Tour the key areas, such as hangars, control towers, maintenance shops, and operational areas.
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Discussion of Roles and Missions
Defense Operations
Learn how the facility supports national defense, including:- Air combat missions
- Reconnaissance and surveillance
- Search and rescue operations
- Logistics and transport missions
Civilian Support
Learn how the facility aids civilians, such as:- Disaster relief and humanitarian missions
- Search and rescue for missing civilians
- Medical evacuation flights
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Aircraft and Equipment Tour
Static Display:
- View military aircraft, helicopters, or drones.
- Discuss the unique capabilities of these aircraft (e.g., stealth technology, high-speed intercepts, heavy-lift cargo).
Hands-On Demonstration:
- If allowed, sit inside a cockpit, explore instrumentation, or watch maintenance crews at work.
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Special Demonstrations (if possible)
- Live Operations: Observe live flight operations, takeoffs, or landings (if safety and operational tempo permit).
- Simulators: Some facilities may offer access to flight simulators for hands-on experience.
- K-9 Units or Security Displays: Learn about how military aviation bases secure their airfields and assets.
Remember!
That military operations take precedence, so be prepared for scheduled changes or restrictions.
As always, make sure you thank your hosts for their time, and ideally write them a thank-you note, including what you enjoyed most about the tour.
Remember!
That military operations take precedence, so be prepared for scheduled changes or restrictions.
As always, make sure you thank your hosts for their time, and ideally write them a thank-you note, including what you enjoyed most about the tour.
Our military pilots are some of the best in the world – and many of them perform at air shows that may only be a short drive away from where you live!
