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Thunderbirds to headline Star Spangled Salute

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  • Tinker Public Affairs
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  The U.S. Air Force Thunderbird aerial demonstration team is set to headline the Star Spangled Salute Air Show at Tinker AFB, June 21-22.

"We are very excited to welcome back the Thunderbirds," said Col. Christopher Azzano, 72nd Air Base Wing and Tinker installation commander. "It has been four years since Central Oklahoma has had the good fortune to host America's premier aerial demonstration team."

As in previous years, Tinker is working with community partners to host a great event for the entire family. These include Aerospace America, Eastern Oklahoma County Tourism Council and Midwest City.

"In our fiscally constrained environment, we could not host an event like this without the assistance of our community partners and their supporters," said Colonel Azzano. "Military air shows are one of our most effective ways to demonstrate our military capability, inspire the next generation of the all-volunteer force and show our appreciation for the support we receive from Oklahomans every day."

Maj. Zachariah McKissick, the 2014 Air Show director, advises that while Tinker is still assembling the full list of aerial performers and ground activities, the 14th Star Spangled Salute will be an exciting two-dayshow.

"From flyovers by Tinker's own KC-135 Stratotanker, "E-3 Sentry and E-6 Mercury to a special children's education and entertainment area, the air show will have lots to offer the entire family," said MajorMcKissick. "There will also be numerous military and civilian aircraft on static display."

The major said the air show will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.
"Entry to the air show and on-site parking is free," said Major McKissick. "However, there will be a charge for food, beverage and souvenir, concessions; as well as some of the special children's activities at the air show."

The Star Spangled Salute will once again feature a special children's area.
Military exhibits showcasing our diverse Armed Forces mission will be displayed throughout the spectator area.

Safety and security are top priorities for the air show. Specific safety and security guidelines will be provided on the official Tinker Star Spangled Salute web page at www.tinker.af.mil/airshow.