Team McConnell marches in Sundown Parade

WICHITA, Kan. -- Senior Airman Anisah Lavine, 22nd Operations Support Squadron, marches a class of Airmen from the First Term Airmen’s Center during the Sundown Parade in downtown Wichita, May 8. Under Airman Lavine’s cadence, the FTAC class marched in the traditional military column fashion in front of an estimated 40,000 onlookers. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Ronald Lafosse)

Team McConnell marches in Sundown Parade

WICHITA, Kan. -- A Navy honor guard leads officers and enlisted members of Naval Operational Support Center Wichita, in the Sundown Parade as the official kickoff to the nine-day Wichita River Festival gets underway. An estimated 40,000 people watched along the parade route as various walking units, marching bands and floats entertained the audience throughout the evening. (Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ron Trevino)

Team McConnell marches in Sundown Parade

Published May 13, 2009
By Staff Sgt. Ronald Lafosse
22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Team McConnell members marched in the Sundown Parade in downtown Wichita in front of an estimated 40,000 onlookers to kick off Riverfest, May 8.

Team McConnell members were proud to participate. "Marching in the Sundown Parade gave the local community the opportunity to see the faces of the men and women that put their lives on the line in defense of our country every day," said Master Sgt. Kimberly Davis, 22nd Force Support Squadron career assistance advisor.

Airman 1st Class Tina Girdano, 22nd Medical Support Squadron, and Airman 1st Class San Ha Choe, 22nd Maintenance Operation Squadron, displayed the McConnell Air Force Base banner as they lead Team McConnell members in the Sundown Parade, followed by Col. James C. Vechery, 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander.

Following the banner were the 22nd Security Forces Squadron K-9 handlers showcasing the military working dogs. The First Term Airmen's Center class also marched in the traditional military column formation. Leading the class was Senior Airman Anisah Lavine, 22nd Operation Support Squadron.

"The FTAC Airmen felt a great sense of pride after marching in the parade and are willing to do it again at anytime," said Sergeant Davis.

Many senior leaders walked with first sergeants and other Team McConnell members behind the marching class. Following them was the McConnell Air Force Base float which carried Team McConnell spouses of deployed members and children.

At the back of the procession were trucks from the 22nd Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Fire Department.

The crowds which lined both sides of the streets along the parade route were greeted by raucous cheers of "Airpower" as Team McConnell passed in a rousing start to to a fun filled Riverfest week.