Several Edwards servicemembers 'Read Across America' Published March 4, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Stacy Sanchez 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Edwards Airmen and Marines visited Antelope Valley schools and read books to children as part of the Read Across America Day on March 3. Servicemembers and civilians volunteered to visit Barrel Springs Elementary School in Palmdale, Calif., as well as Bailey Elementary School here. Read Across America is celebrated each year on the first Monday in March to celebrate the birthday of Theodore Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss. This event is also an opportunity for military members to interact with children and share the joy of reading. "I appreciate that everyone came out today and showed these children their support," said Chief Master Sgt. Juan Lewis, 95th Air Base Wing command chief. "I know, by coming out here today, we are going to inspire some young children to possibly pursue a future in the military." Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Soltis, 412th Test Wing command chief, said he would have loved an opportunity to meet with military members as a child. "Growing up, I never knew much about the Air Force," Chief Soltis said. "It would have been great to have a military member come out and read to me. I would have had a better understanding of the military." To inspire children to travel, Chief Soltis brought a personal book that he has had for more than 20 years called "Oh, the Place You'll Go!" by Dr. Suess. "I want everyone to know that I have had the chance to travel to many places and seen many things in the Air Force," Chief Soltis said. After the readings were over, the children asked questions to the guest readers. "These children are fearless," said Sgt. Maj. Michael Brookman, Marine Aircraft Group 46 Detachment Bravo's highest enlisted Marine. "They asked some tough questions about military life. I can tell they really enjoyed us coming out here today."