JBLM Air Expo 2010 'full of excitement'

  • Published
  • By Airman Leah Young
  • 62d Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  After the numbers were tallied, more than 230,000 community members attended the 2010 Joint Base Lewis-McChord Air Expo July 17 and 18.

"We are incredibly pleased with the crowd turn out and the unique line-up of events," said Maj. Benjamin Jonsson, 62d Airlift Wing Air Expo Director.

This year's Air Expo showcased a variety of both military and civilian aerial demonstrations from all over the country, including the U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight and the Patriots Jet Team.

More than four dozen static displays were showcased, including the MQ-1 Predator "Drone" and two F-22 Raptors.

The two-day event allowed Joint Base-Lewis McChord to extend a "thank you" to the surrounding communities for their continuous support. It was also a great opportunity for the local community to catch a glimpse of the professionalism and dedication of the finest Air Force in the world.

"Being able to introduce our community to the aircraft and technology of the Air Force was a great thing to accomplish," said Major Jonsson.

Although clouds hung low in the morning, the skies cleared up in the afternoon and provided perfect Air Expo weather. Crowds were able to enjoy a fun-filled day of aerial demonstrations, various food vendors, souvenirs, and a chance to explore the numerous civilian and military aircraft on display.

"This was my first Air Expo, and it was just a really great experience," said Airman 1st Class Walter Day, 62d Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Crew Chief.

In addition to the number of aircraft displayed and toured on the ground, there were plenty more to thrill spectators from the sky. The 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment daringly leapt from a McChord C-17 Globemaster III, and the opening act included a thrilling airfield assault demonstration featuring C-17 Globemaster III's, a UH-1 Huey, two A-10 Thunderbolts, and an AH-1S Cobra.

The final act to conclude the high-flying day of fun was the Patriot Jet Team. Their magnificent L-39's electrified spectators with fast paced formation-flying, choreographed aerobatic maneuvers, and the signature "tail slide," a feat not performed by any military jet demonstration team.

"The Air Expo was full of excitement," said Day. "I really enjoyed every minute of it."

Many hard-working and dedicated volunteers are to thank for the success of this year's Air Expo. McChord Field officials are looking forward to the next Air Expo, slated for summer 2012.

"The 2012 Air Expo will include a fully operational joint base system, and it's something that we're all looking forward to," said Major Jonsson.