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315th AW participates in NY Veterans Day Parade

  • Published
  • By 315th AW Public Affairs
NEW YORK --  Members of the 315th Airlift Wing, Joint Base Charleston, S.C. joined the mini C-17 replica in the annual New York City Veterans Day Parade Nov. 12.

The parade, which is the largest of its kind in the country, covered more than 30 blocks down 5th Ave in midtown Manhattan and was viewed by millions of people around the world.

"This parade is a great opportunity to introduce Charleston Air Force Base and the mini C-17 replica to a worldwide audience," Tech. Sgt. Chris Fabel, 315th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron said. 

The mini C-17 project began as a John Deere Gator and took more than 5 years to transform into a driveable community relation and outreach tool.

315th AW members built the replica using donated time and material as it served as a training tool for aircraft maintenance personnel. Wing members volunteer their time and efforts to travel the country with the mini C-17 educating the public on the missions and capabilities of the C-17 Globemaster III and the Air Force Reserve.

Since it's dedication in November 2004, the mini C-17 has been displayed at ball parks, air shows, community events and the courtyard of the Pentagon.

To learn more about the mini C-17 project, check out our video or email 1st Lt Joe Simms for more information.