Local ROTC cadets practice 90 at 90 initiatives Published March 7, 2012 By Senior Airman Veronica McMahon 36th Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- Team Andersen Airmen introduced the "90 at 90" physical fitness standard initiative to local Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets Feb. 26, allowing them to experience the active-duty expectations first-hand. The high school cadets from John F. Kennedy High School in Tumon, Guam, spent most of the weekend touring Andersen's assets, yet the 6 a.m. morning PT test gave them a different glance the standards Airmen must meet and the importance that fitness plays in the military. The test was conducted by members of the 36th Force Support Squadron, and the cadets were required to meet the same standard as active-duty Airmen. "We can't stress enough that you make these efforts to meet these challenges," said Capt. Jesse Calland, 36 FSS Sustainment Flight Services chief. "We have set this standard because fitness is important and makes you well rounded." After taking the test, the cadets were briefed on the importance of the PT standards. Captain Calland also explained the nature of the military and that we are subject to deploy, wear battle rattle and adjust to climate changes, therefore being physically fit is absolutely necessary. The cadets agreed that the standards were difficult and said they struggled but gave it their all. "PT is important because they are supposed to be the best of the best and be ready to go outside to war," said Cadet 1st Lt. Fancine Aflague, tour participant and winner of the superior performer in the female fitness category. "Some of it was hard but we pushed through." As the tour concluded Brig. Gen. John Doucette, 36th Wing commander, briefed the cadets about the active-duty Air Force and stressed the importance of PT. He emphasized that although the standards might seem strenuous, they are now part of our culture. Along with the PT test, the cadets to witness a dog demo, tour the flightline, participate in roll-over training and gear up to participate in the weapons simulator. They also joined the 554th REDHORSE Squadron to build tents in which they camped out in overnight. "A lot of them will be coming into the military and these are the standards they will have to meet," said Col. David Cruz, ROTC cadet instructor. "Coming out here is good, it connects the dots between high school and real life and they hearing it from professionals." Capt. Adam Burwinkle from the 554 RHS headed up the event and worked closely with the school to make it possible. The principal was impressed at the enthusiasm of the cadets and the training they gained. "This is a great way to let them observe in a whole what the Air Force does and gives them an opportunity to see it in real life, it is very powerful," said Kenneth Charguarlaf, JFK High School Principal. "Now they know they need to perform to a certain level to even be considered. This tour has given them a sense of worth and a sense of pride to be an Air Force cadet."