Legacy of liberty air show fast approaching

  • Published
  • By 49th Wing Public Affairs office
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  They streak through the New Mexico sky, inspiring the young and old alike as they highlight the history and future of the Air Force. Their red, white and blue bodies can only do one thing - inspire one's patriotism.

That's the feeling many get when the U.S. Air Force aerial demonstration team, the Thunderbirds, makes their presence known. The entire Tularosa Basin, and beyond, will be able to experience this breath-taking aerial team during Holloman's 2011 Legacy of Liberty Air Show and Open House scheduled for Saturday, October 8.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Derek Steneman, 2011 Air Show director and F-22 pilot, said watching the demonstration team can be rewarding for both military members and civilians.

"After watching the time and preparation that goes into these shows and seeing the results of these efforts, it's still the look on people's faces that make it all worth it," Steneman said. "I know from my experience in the Air Force, I never get tired of seeing a Thunderbird demonstration."

The show will also feature performances by a T-33 Shooting Star and a B-25 Mitchell Bomber, as well as an F-16 demonstration.

The show is open from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. No entrance to the show will be allowed after 4 p.m. Admission for the event is free.

The following items will NOT be allowed on the flight line: backpacks, large bags, coolers, glass containers, bicycles, skateboards, pets, weapons, large knives and pepper spray. Items that are confiscated will not be returned.

Visitors will be allowed to bring small camera bags, lawn chairs, purses, strollers and similar items.

Refreshments will be available for purchase throughout the day. In addition to the schedule of aerial events, dozens of aircraft will be on static display. Holloman's own aircraft--the F-22 Raptor, T-38 Talon, MQ-1 Predator, MQ-9 Reaper and the German Air Force Tornado--will be seen in the skies and on static display.

Steneman added that everyone gets a different experience from watching the Air Force Thunderbirds.

"There is something for everyone when they watch the Thunderbirds," he said. "Hopefully, we inspire young people to ask questions. We look forward to them thinking of the Air Force as a career."

For information on the Air Force Thunderbirds or the 2011 Holloman Air Force Base Legacy of Liberty air show web site (www.hollomanairshow.com), contact the 49th Wing Public Affairs Office at (575) 572-5406.