Who better to have for the QC Fit Fest Expo on September 11, 2021 as Title Sponsor than the Iowa National Guard?
Not only is this an excellent way to remember the day no American will ever forget, but it’s a way to honor our Iowa Branch of the U.S. Army National Guard. They are bringing fun for the whole family at QC Fit Fest. Plus, it’s another great way for our community to get up close and personal with our service men and women in attendance, give thanks and enjoy their awesome rock-climbing wall and inflatable obstacle course for kids.
I had a chance to sit down and talk with Cory Hawk and talk in-depth about his service in the Army National Guard. He’s very proud of his service and as he told me his story with a half-smile-grin, he reflected on seeing his stepdad’s career as Active Guard Reserve and remembers him serving during the infamous Flood of 1993. Cory’s original intention was to do it part-time after high school and through college until he figured out his career path but ended up loving it so much, he committed to it full-time and attributes to it making him who he is today.
Sgt. First Class Cory Hawk, a North Scott native, has served our country in Iraq and through numerous flood duties, ice storms and helped people all over our country in natural disasters, providing relief even during the unforgettable derecho of 2020. He told me how he would be celebrating his 20th year with the Iowa National Guard the following day after our interview. When I said, ‘Oh, so you’re a lifer?!” he responded, “Yes! I hope to stick it out until they kick me out.”
Mr. Hawk (He seriously couldn’t have a better name for growing up and living in Iowa while serving fellow Iowans!) describes the missions he’s been on to help others as ‘more than fulfilling.’ He went on to explain that the Army National Guard is the only branch in the military that has two missions, a federal and a state. Their first mission is the State of Iowa, living here as Iowans serving their fellow Iowans.
The commitment to be in the Iowa National Guard is minimal and only two weeks total out of the entire year. Sgt. First Class Cory Hawk broke it down as 2 days a month of training per month and highlighted that it’s full-time benefits for part-time work. They also offer 100% college tuition assistance for a 4-year degree. The State of Iowa gives $36,000 more than any other branch of the military so those who join will walk away debt-free with a college education for 6 years of service, including those with existing student loan debt. They will receive up to $50,000 towards their educational debt.
Cory Hawk is all about the workout when it comes to the interactive rock wall our Title Sponsor will provide at QC Fit Fest. He says not only does he love going up and down the wall a few times during events, but the main muscle groups worked are the forearms and back, with a focus on stretching since some of the grips are farther apart than you would expect. You’ll be harnessed up with cables and able to climb the 28-foot wall inside the River Center at the Army National Guard’s Title Sponsor Booth. We are honored and privileged to be the first-ever indoor event they’ve brought this to.
Join us on Saturday, September 11, 2021 from 11am – 6pm for the first-ever QC Fit Fest at the River Center, 136 E. 3rd St. Davenport, IA. It’s $10 at the door and kids 13 and under get in for $5. Enjoy a variety of vendors, watch demos and hear speakers from all types of health and fitness industries to help give you the opportunity to thrive on your health journey.
