Air and Space Expo at Beale AFB June 7-8
Scheduled for June 7-8, this event is the first major air show at Beale since 2018. It's part of the Air Force's Open House program, which encourages bases to welcome their local communities for a look at aviation technology and military life.
'We are just ecstatic to be able to open the doors to Beale Air Force Base and showcase what our airmen do on this base, showcase a little bit of our mission, and display some of America's finest aircraft to the local community,' said Air Force Major Demo, who used his call sign to identify himself. 'It's gonna be a wonderful opportunity to see not only what's stationed here at Beale Air Force Base, but also many other aircraft from the United States Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy — some of the greatest technology this country has to offer will be on this ramp.'
During the expo, the skies above Beale will be roaring with aerial demonstrations by military and civilian performers, including the featured act, the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, whose elite pilots perform in the Air Force's premier multi-role fighter jet, the F-16 Fighting Falcon.
Meanwhile, on the ground, nearly 40 aircraft will be on static display. Attendees can view military aircraft from all over the country and all branches of service, as well as helicopters, warbirds, law enforcement aircraft, and exhibits from organizations like Cal Fire and the Civil Air Patrol.
One of the highlights will be the U-2 Dragon Lady — a high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft known for its near-space missions and for being extremely difficult to fly. Since the 1950s, the U-2 has played a critical role in providing intelligence for U.S. and allied forces globally.
With the ability to reach altitudes above 70,000 feet, the U-2 delivers signals, imagery and electronic intelligence from near-space. Long, glider-like wings allow it to lift heavy sensor payloads. Pilots are required to wear full-pressure suits like those worn by astronauts.
'We chose to call it an air and space expo in celebration of the 70 years that the U-2 and the SR-71…have been flying,' Demo said. 'We're celebrating that legacy and the future of Beale Air Force Base.'
The expo is designed to be as educational as it is entertaining. Attendees can visit the STEM hangar for a variety of hands-on, STEM-focused activities, both aircraft-related and otherwise.
'The important thing is to inspire our next generation of folks via STEM to kind of see the potential things they can do,' STEM Director and Captain Grant said. 'When our young people and families come into the STEM space, they're within a different experience.'
An estimated 300-400 community volunteers are required to make this event possible.
'We are happy to partner with Beale,' Janie Nall of the Beale Military Liaison Council said. 'Beale has been around in the community…This is part of our culture.'
For information on tickets and volunteer opportunities, visit www.bealeairshow.com.
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