Master Sgt. Michael Thomas, incoming Recruiting and Retention superintendent for the Alaska Air National Guard, distributes prizes and recruiting swag to students at the Andreafski High School in St. Mary’s, Alaska, March 31, 2023. The Association of Village Council Presidents recently partnered with the Alaska National Guard to provide recruiting information and resources through their Tribal Job Centers. The initiative kicked off in St. Mary’s with presentations from AVCP and AKNG, where representatives interacted with students, parents, teachers, and community members. AVCP provides community development, education, social services, culturally relevant programs, and advocacy for the people and 56 tribes of Western Alaska. (Alaska National Guard photo by Balinda O’Neal)