Two West Lauderdale High School seniors will serve their country after graduation after signing Thursday to join The Mississippi Air National Guard.

 

Crayton Allen and Zane Wood will join the 186th Air Refueling Wing stationed at Key Field.

Allen, who will join the 186th maintenance group, will go to technical training where he will be trained to inspect and maintain the refueling aircraft the 186th ARW flies to refuel military aircraft on missions around the world.

 

Facing the end of high school without a solid plan, Allen said joining the Air National Guard is a good step for him as it will give him the opportunity to figure out what it is he wants to do while providing a secure job in the process. Should more education be needed down the line, he said military service will help cut down on higher education expenses.

 

Wood said he was raised to respect service members, and joining the military has always been a consideration. With a desire to go to trade school, he said, joining the Air National Guard helps him accomplish both goals.

 

“I’m going into Power Pro, which is diesel mechanics and electrical,” he said. “So I’ll get both my electrical and diesel mechanic certifications through the military.”

 

Tech Sgt. Jerrious Dowdy, who serves as a production recruiter for the 186th ARW, said he is incredibly proud of both Allen and Wood for their decision to join the Air National Guard. While the process hasn’t been an easy one, he said both recruits stuck it out and worked hard to achieve their goals.

 

“These guys decided to commit. They had the courage to come to my office, speak with me about the guard, and I was able to help them on their journey,” he said.

 

“I want to let you guys know that I’m extremely proud of you guys. We’ve gained a jewel here in our community,” Dowdy told the two students. “I think you guys will enjoy the 186th.”