From the Armed Forces
• Navy Seaman Recruit Patrick J. Wurster II, son of Karen S. Wurster, Bradenton, Fla., and Patrick J. Wurster, Des Plaines, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes.
During the eight-week program, Wurster completed training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.
The capstone event of boot camp is "Battle Stations," an exercise that gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. It is designed to galvanize the attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance recruits through the practical application of basic Navy skills and the core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment.
Wurster is a 2005 graduate of Maine West High School.
• Air Force Airman 1st Class David A. Grzybowski, son of Elizabeth Cerrudo of Des Plaines, graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio.
During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization, and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches, and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises, and special training in human relations. In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force.
Grzybowski received an associate degree in 2006 from Tulsa Community College in Oklahoma.
• Air Force Tech. Sgt. Tracy D. Medford, whose wife, Tina, is the daughter of Mike and Anne Claxon, Elk Grove Village, graduated from the Air Force Noncommissioned Officer Academy.
During the six-week course, Medford received training in professional military education that prepares noncommissioned officers for positions of increased responsibility by broadening their leadership and supervisory skills, and expanding their perspective of the military profession to be better supervisors and mentors.
Training included instruction in advanced military leadership management theories and responsibilities, and the profession of arms; oral, written, and speaking communication skills, and physical fitness training. The sergeants are trained to perform supervisory duties to learn behavior concepts, problem solving, and counseling techniques relative to the Air Force mission and organization.
Medford, a weapons load team chief with 16 years of military service, is regularly assigned to the 509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman Air Force Base, Knob Noster, Mo.
He is the son of Helen M. and stepson of Sam A. ReidGranite Falls, N.C.