HUTCHINSON , Kan. — A large number of counselors and officials from area school districts, dignitaries, and other guests were part of a special promotion from the Kansas National Guard Wednesday.

The special guests were treated to a flight aboard a Black Hawk helicopter.

Major Eric Hollingsworth with the National Guard talked about the event and how it’s used as a recruiting tool to make school districts more aware of what the National Guard can provide for those wanting help with future education while serving their country. “What we want to do is help citizens understand what the mission of the Kansas National Guard is by helping soldiers become better citizens by allowing them to get the tuition assistance and the education opportunities they have,” Major Eric Hollingsworth of the National Guard said.

The day featured a short orientation followed by some paperwork, then photos of each group of flyers. The two helicopters made three 20-minute trips, taking off and landing at the Sports Arena.

The helicopters were cast into the spotlight when they were used to help fight the wildfires in Kansas last summer by doing water drops.