As Sept. 7-8 gets closer the lineup of acts and static displays continue to come into focus for the Grissom Air & Space Expo.
“Many of the plans our committee have been working the last 18 months are starting to really come into fruition,” said Douglas Hays, 434th Air Refueling Wing chief of public affairs.
The event is free and open to the public.
“When we say free, we mean free parking and free entry,” Hays said.
Recent updates to the event were announced and include an FG1-D Corsair, P-51 Mustang, F-5A, and F-86 Sabre demonstrations, and an American Champ Super Decathlon to the list of aircraft flying during the show.
“This is a flying event,” said Col. Larry Shaw, 434th ARW commander. “We want to have as many aircraft up in the air for people to see as we can – we’re the Air Force!”
Previously announced fliers include the Thunderbirds, F-16CM Viper, KC-135R, A-10 Warthog and Army Golden Knights
The committee hopes to land a couple more fliers within the next couple weeks to bolster the flying lineup.
“We’ve got a couple contracts in the works for some exciting civilian acts,” said Lt. Col. Brian Thompson, airshow director. “Once the ink is on the paper we’ll be announcing those as well.”
While the skies will be filled with aviation acts and performers, those needing to give their necks a break from looking up will find plenty of aircraft on the tarmac to see.
Recent addition to the static display line up include a C-47, F8F Bearcat, and TBM Avenger.
They join previously announced static displays of T-6 Texan, T-38 Talon, KC-10 Extender, C-5 Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster, F-35 Lightning, A-10 Warthog, F-16 Fighting Falcon, UH-1 Huey and UH-60 Black Hawk.
Other events and activities are in the works as well.
“This is a great event for our neighbors,” Hays said. “You can’t beat the price, it’s free!”
The Grissom Air & Space Expo is the first major community relations event since 2003.
“Air shows are a great way for our friends and neighbors to see what Grissom is all about,” Hays said. “The whole intent is to inspire people to join the military, retain the quality force we have and to inspire visitors by highlighting the capabilities and professionalism of the Air Force.”
He added that he’d love for readers to share this story on their social media platforms to help get the word out the Grissom Air & Space Expo.
For more information about the airshow, visit grissomairshow.com and stay connected with the 434th ARW on Facebook and Twitter for continued updates.
