PIERCE, Neb. -- Students and faculty at Pierce High School got a visit from members of the Nebraska Army National Guard on Wednesday morning.

The military members made a grand entrance behind the school by flying in a transport helicopter from Grand Island.

The purpose of the visit was for students to get a chance to interact with members of the military and to get a first-hand look at what being in the armed forces is like.

Jessie London, who is a member of the Nebraska Army National Guard, said the visit was a chance to give students an up-close view of the equipment they use and possibly recruit the next generation of military members from Nebraska.

“We just kind of wanted to showcase our equipment and do a little bit of recruiting stuff for the school,” London said. “Just trying to show them our capabilities and what we can do.” 

The students got a chance to walk in the helicopter and get a tour of how it operates. Seniors even climbed aboard for some unique senior pictures.