Holloman AFB to participate in MAW

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman John D. Strong II
  • 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Holloman Airmen and equipment will be showcased to the public during the city of Ruidoso's annual Military Appreciation Week slated for May 14 through 17.

MAW started in April 2008 as a venue for the Ruidoso area community to show their appreciation to all servicemembers in the Tularosa basin as well as promote a better understanding of the various military installations, missions and people.

"Last year's Military Appreciation Week went over just great, it was very well received and it's now an annual event," said Ms. Millie Woods, Ruidoso Civic Leader and MAW president. "After last year's MAW, a lot of relationships were formed and a sense of pride could be felt during and after the event."

For this year's event, several new attractions will be available including a Holloman AFB F-22A Raptor fly-over.

Other attractions include the g-force chair, military weapons displays, military working dogs, Lockheed-Martin Raptor simulator and demonstrations by the Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., and White Sands Missile Range Rappel teams.

"A big highlight will be the battle fought by the Sappers. It will be two battalions of 20 men each and they will actually be fighting a war," said Ms. Woods.

The New Mexico Museum of Space History will also return this year, launching model rockets and putting on different displays aimed at promoting an understanding of space exploration and its pioneers.

Another part of this year's MAW will be the golf tournament held at the Inn of the Mountain Gods, Thursday May 14.

Different gifts and prizes will be awarded throughout the MAW golf tournament. In addition to the golfing festivities, a silent auction will be held afterward with proceeds supporting MAW and donations to servicemembers serving overseas.

"Those people that serve, especially in during a time of armed conflict, sacrifice a lot and the people here in Ruidoso really appreciate it and want to say, 'Thanks'," said Mr. Fitzwater.

For more information on MAW please visit http://www.ruidosomaw.org/