Photographer gives children a chance to express creativity Published May 23, 2011 By Capt. Wayne Capps 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. -- Teaching classes on photography, public speaking or media relations may seem like old hat to many seasoned Public Affairs professionals but once in a while rewarding opportunities present themselves. Michael Dukes, an Air Force veteran and public affairs specialist with the 315th Airlift Wing at Joint Base Charleston, S.C., had the opportunity to organize and teach a photography seminar to children of service members who have recently returned from a deployment. The program was part of the Air Force Reserve Command's Yellow Ribbon Reintegration event held at Hilton Head Island, S.C. on May 20-22, 2011. "I feel that offering a photo workshop for the kids of returning veterans is a great productive activity," said Dukes. The class was initially designed to provide activities for children while parents learned about available benefits following a deployment, but turned out to be much more. "Photography for kids provides another way for them to express themselves through pictures instead of words," said Dukes. "These classes teach the children a sense of accomplishment and really helps their self-esteem," said Christina Devoe, the South Carolina project coordinator for Operation Military Kids, the organization setting up the classes. "It is important that we allow them to have the control and freedom to express themselves, especially when their lives have been disrupted by deployments." According to Operation Military Kid's web site, the organization's goal is to support children impacted by deployments and to connect military children and youth with local resources in order to achieve a sense of community support and enhance their well-being. Classes like the one taught by Dukes is a perfect example of their mission. This is not the first class Mr. Dukes has volunteered to teach. He recently designed a taught a photography class for at risk children in the North Charleston area. "This is about giving the kids something that they can take with them. Besides, It is just fun!" said DeVoe. Stay up to date with the 315th Airlift Wing at http://www.315aw.afrc.af.mil/. Follow the 315 AW onFacebook and Twitter.