JB Charleston to host free Air & Space Expo

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Joshua R. Maund
  • Joint Base Charleston Public Affairs

Joint Base Charleston is scheduled to host a free Air & Space Expo, April 28, 2018 on the Air Base.

Gates open at 8:30 a.m. Parking will also be available to the public at no cost.

“We are very excited for this year’s air show,” said Col. Jimmy Canlas, 437th Airlift Wing commander. “We hope folks have a safe, fun and memorable experience. It’s a great opportunity to showcase the capabilities of the United States Air Force and our sister services to the Lowcountry.”

The air expo will feature a performance by the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, along with other military and private demonstration teams such as an F-16 Heritage Flight, MiG-17, Prowlers of the Pacific, Warrior Flight Team, Douglas C-47 Skytrain and Bill Stein.

“This is the first time in seven years our community is going to get to experience what makes air power so special,” said Lt. Col. Matthew Brennan, 628th Mission Support Squadron deputy commander. “Come early, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy. It's going to be awesome!”

On the ground, there will be various static displays, a live music performance by Charleston-based cover band 17 SOUTH and concessions will be available for purchase.

The air expo will also offer unique opportunities to learn about developments and technology in the area of space.

“On the ground, the planning team is securing assets that will showcase different space capabilities performed by the Air Force like space launch, satellite control and monitoring, and nuclear deterrence, said Brennan.

Additionally, attendees can expect to see various other exhibits and demos that highlight science, technology, engineering and math. 

Allowed items:

Strollers, diaper bags, lawn chairs, small purses, wheelchairs/medical equipment, personal umbrellas, cameras, video recorders, blankets and binoculars.

Prohibited items:

Weapons, toys resembling firearms, fireworks, spray paint/silly string, glass containers, alcohol, illegal drugs, bicycles, skateboards, heelies, roller skates, rollerblades, coolers, rucksacks or backpacks, animals or pets and hard sided water bottles such as canteens, thermoses.

Family Fest 2018

The day before the Air Expo, April 27, ID card holders and their dependents are invited to attend Family Fest! This exciting pre-Air and Space Expo event will be filled with fun, free food and live entertainment for the entire family. Meet and greet the brave pilots of the Thunderbird’s Aerial Demonstration Team while the youth burn up some energy in the Kids Zone. Be sure to arrive with sunscreen, umbrellas and chairs, and be ready for a great time. This event will be held at Nose Dock 1 on the Air Base at 3 p.m.

“The hangar party is a free event to socialize with the performers and say thanks to the men and women of JB Charleston for their dedicated work,” said Brennan.

For directions, a full line-up of confirmed acts and additional information, visit http://www.jbcharleston.jb.mil/Home/Joint-Base-Charleston-2018-Air-and-Space-Expo/.

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