GRAND JUNCTION, Colo (KKCO) The Colorado National Guard family program invited kids to come to the 1st annual "Mesa military youth experience." It was held at the new National Guard family readiness center. Kids got a chance to see and do different things that their parents do while in active duty, the reserves, or the national guard. Activities included using night vision goggles, battle simulators, climbing ropes, and much more. Lunch was provided by the American Red Cross.

"They got the experience, they got to meet new friends, new battle buddies. It was great, and we did a mock welcome home ceremony for the kids, which is exactly what their parents get when they come home from deployment; so we got to share that with them," says Danielle Hindson, Family Assistance Specialist with the Colorado Army National Guard.

24 kids from different military branches participated in Saturday's event.