LAGWAR | GAMING'S BEST IN TOP NOTCH MEDIOCRITY

If you’ve ever been to a gaming convention of any kind, you know not to be surprised by who or what you see. There are all walks of life in the gaming industry, so people dressed as elves and creatures don’t phase me. I was surprised, however, to see an Army booth set up at the Game Expo in Philadelphia. Another recruiting ploy was my first thought until Lagwar scored an interview with Staff Sergeant Palmer Ashe and changed our minds.

One of our first questions was “What is the Army doing at a Game Expo?” His response was pretty surprising. He began to explain how the Army has implemented an Army Experience Center in Philadelphia. Contrary to popular belief, this is not a recruiting center. Staff Sergeant Ashe was very adamant on the topic of recruitment. Many people have a picture painted in their head that when we see an Army booth or an Army center, the object if to recruit. That is definitely not the case at the AEC in Philadelphia.

Staff Sergeant Ashe described the place to us. Sixty Alienware computers, 19 X-Box 360s, and career configurations are all in their 15,000 square feet facility. Where do I sign up? At the Game Expo, the Army had a mobile version of their career configuration where people could find out about any job in the army, how much education and skills they need for the career of their choice.

He explained the facility is a safe family friendly environment where kids can come in and have a positive experience. Some children and teenagers who visit the AEC are from troubled homes or backgrounds and providing a secure positive interaction can make all the difference for them. The AEC follows the ESRB guidelines on all games, which has gained respect and appreciation from parents.

The center has been open for just over a year now and Staff Sergeant Ashe says he “believes they are making a difference in the community. The point is to try to bring a friendly military presence in the community.”

Whether you or your family is visiting the center for a fun gaming experience, attending an event night at AEC, or just wanting to talk, you won’t find any pressure or expectation to sign up for the Army. What you will find is soldiers willing to answer questions, give their experiences, and offer positive encouragement to Philadelphia’s youth.

You can visit the Army Experience Center at www.thearmyexperience.com.