McConnell to recognize WWII veterans

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Armando A. Schwier-Morales
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Sixty-seven years ago U.S. military forces flew across the Pacific, marched through the African desert, trekked the European continent prepared to sacrifice their lives to preserve the lives of many more.

At 11 a.m. Sept. 25, 2010, World War II veterans are scheduled to walk McConnell's flightline.

The veterans will be recognized for their service during a ceremony that is scheduled on the first day of McConnell's Open House and Air Show Sept. 25-26, and will mark the official opening of the Open House.

"McConnell is recognizing these veterans to thank them for all they did for our country and allies at a critical point in world history," said Sharon Hamric, 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs chief of community relations. "Their legacy of sacrifice and devotion to duty continues to inspire our nation."

The 22nd ARW commander spoke about his gratitude of the veterans and their impact on the base. 

"I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the servicemembers who sacrificed so much for their country in the cause of freedom," said Col. Jamie Crowhurst, 22nd ARW commander. "I also would like to thank them for their support and the example they provide to all of Team McConnell. Their courage and selflessness personify America's greatest generation."

During the ceremony, the veterans will be individually recognized for their service and have their command and place of service announced.

"Honoring WWII Veterans is a natural fit with our theme of showcasing American warriors, past and present," said Mrs. Hamric. "Recognizing our heroes as we welcome the community to McConnell for a Total Force air show emphasizes the enduring respect we hold for each of these veterans."

Like the veterans, all air show guest can watch as the military showcases its precision and professionalism through aerial demonstrations and interactive ground displays.

While the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds are the featured aerial demonstration, many performers will showcase their aircraft's capabilities. The Navy will fly the F/A-18 Hornet through a variety of tactical aerial maneuvers.

John Klatt will showcase the Air National Guard and several other military aircraft will be flown and or available on display. In addition, the air show will host civilian acts by Randy Ball, Dan Buchannon and a WWII aerial dog fight reenactment.

On the ground McConnell guests can watch as the U.S. Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon personifies professionalism as they perform a precise rifle drill. In addition, soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division, "The Big Red" will showcase their legacy with ground displays.

In addition to honoring veterans, the Open House allows McConnell to open its gates to the community. On base, guests can interact one-on-one with Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines.

"This is another opportunity to align with one another in affirming the value of those who served in our military," said Mrs. Hamric. "This community lets us know in so many ways every day they believe in our mission and support our Airmen."

WWII veterans through Kansas are still able to register for the recognition ceremony by visiting www.mcconnell.af.mil and clicking on the Thunderbirds banner. The Open House web page contains a downloadable registration form for WWII veterans. The deadline for the registration is Sept. 3.