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Blog 9-1-10
AIRSHO is almost here and I hope you’re as excited as I am! We have a great lineup of aircraft and performers scheduled. Bring the entire family out because we have something for everyone. There will be a TRADESHO in the main CAF hangar as you enter the AIRSHO. Located throughout the AIRSHO grounds you will also be able to shop at the many merchandise vendor and PX booths. Hangar 57 located in AIRSHO Square and the CAF Gift Shop located inside the Museum will offer official AIRSHO and CAF memorabilia. We are pleased this year to bring you local food vendors who will offer a wide variety of delicious menu items. We haven’t forgotten the kids. Lots of activities are planned in the Jr. Aces Kids Tent sponsored by West Texas Chevy Dealers.
Have you purchased your tickets yet? Remember tickets purchased in advance are discounted. You may purchase tickets online at www.airsho.org or by clicking right here or in the local Midland-Odessa area from one of our sponsors; Western National Bank, 7-11, Domino's Pizza.
-Gena Linebarger
7/20/2010
I've heard from the 2 A-10 pilots that bring the jets in from Barksdale for AIRSHO. They have always been static displays. However this year are signed off to fly a 2 ship during the AIRSHO. -Gena Linebarger
7/13/2010
In addition to the already fantastic AIRSHO schedule, even more great acts have been added. We are excited to host Major Mike “Cash” Maeder, Captain John “Gizmo” Cox and the entire F-15 Strike Eagle Demo Team from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina. Major Maeder will flawlessly demonstrate the capabilities of the high-performance F-15E aircraft both Saturday and Sunday of the show, complete with ground pyrotechnics.
Also added to the AIRSHO lineup will be the incredible “Rat Pack” C-17A Demonstration Team from Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma. You will not only see the best flying from the C-17 Globemaster but you’ll want to take time and tour the aircraft while it’s on static display.
Make your plans now to attend AIRSHO where you will be able to shake hands and meet our awesome military pilots and crews.
4/5/2010
AIRSHO announces a new addition to our line up of performers. We are pleased to include the talents of Kyle and Amanda Franklin in “Pirated Skies”. This act features a solo by Kyle, in the infamous Waco Mystery Ship and includes wing walking by the lovely Amanda. This is a performance you won’t want to miss! (www.franklinairshow.com)
If you want great seats for viewing all of the flying at AIRSHO, reserve your space now in the improved Fighter Squadron Hospitality Area. Enjoy covered seating,open air tables, meals, snacks and beverages. Click here for more details.
Are you a CAF Colonel? New this year CAF Members have access to Prime View Seating exclusively for CAF Colonels, for an AIRSHO experience beyond all of your expectations. Seats are limited so purchase your tickets now. Click here for more details. If you are not a member and would like to become one and receive free general admission to AIRSHO, join here.
Gena Linebarger
AIRSHO Chairman
iblast4fun@grandecom.net
1/26/2010
I hope you’ve already marked your calendars for October 9 & 10, 2010 to attend the CAF AIRSHO in Midland, TX. The AIRSHO Committee and Headquarters Staff are working diligently to bring you another great show filled with fun and entertainment for the entire family! We are excited to have as two of our featured performers, Matt Younkin in the Beech 18 and Bob Carlton in the Super Salto jet sailplane. Not only will you be awed by their daytime aerobatics, but you will also be dazzled by their spectacular night performances on Saturday of AIRSHO. At this time, we are waiting to receive word from Air Combat Command as to which Demo Team will support our show. Hopefully we will have an answer by the end of February. As aircraft, performers and entertainment firm up, we will bring it to you first, here on the blog. Stay tuned…..
Gena Linebarger
AIRSHO Chairman
10/16/09
This time last week we were knee deep in AIRSHO. Now, just the memories and photos remain. Wow, what a very busy and exciting weekend it was. It was great to see so many airplanes and people on the ramps. Thank you CAF Units for bringing your aircraft. I especially want to thank the individuals who joined us with their own private aircraft as well. The military supported us with not only Demo Teams and flyovers but with a variety of static displays. I hope you had the opportunity to stop by the re-enactors camp. Their display and personnel were truly appreciated. Thank you food vendors and TRADESHO exhibitors too. When you think of air shows, you think about airplanes. Let’s not forget about the enormous volunteer base that it takes to make a show successful. I know you saw so many people hustling about and carrying out their duties without ever looking at the planes flying overhead. These individuals were the network of volunteers. I owe each of you a special gratitude of thanks for a job well done. The volunteers stretched from ticket takers to trash haulers, from shuttle drivers to chalet workers, from Marshallers to the public safety team, including ROTC and CAP support, from the pyro team to the liaison teams. This list is only a few of the places volunteers were found. I want to give each of you, the volunteers, around of applause for your dedication and support of the AIRSHO. Last but not least, thank you CAF members and spectators for coming to the AIRSHO! We appreciate the support from our local communities as well as the support from those that traveled vast distances to be a part of the Commemorative Air Force AIRSHO 2009.
It has been a valuable experience to be this year’s AIRSHO Director. As I look back over last weekend and the months leading up to the show, I see what a great effort it takes by so many people to put on such a big event. With AIRSHO 2009 now behind us, please continue to check back www.airsho.org for updates and information on next year’s show. See you at AIRSHO 2010!
Gena
10-09-09
AIRSHO IS HERE! The mass migration to West Texas for AIRSHO weekend has arrived. Excited, people are arriving by car, bus, and Military Transport Aircraft, all to see the Best Warbird show in America. It is so exciting to watch the tents go up, the parking lots start to fill, and the Modern Military Jets practicing maneuvers in the sky.
In a couple of hours the first announcement will be made to welcome thousands of children to the Special Show and Junior Aces Show. Once that first “We would like to welcome you to the 2009 CAF AIRSHO” is made, we are off and running.
It looks like Saturday and Sunday’s weather couldn’t be better. I hope you have your tickets and are ready to head out to the airport. If you don’t you will still be able to purchase them at 7-11 convenience stores, local Western National Bank branches, or online, by clicking here.
Come on out, we want to see you at the show!
Gena
9-30-09
I’m very pleased to announce that the U.S. Navy’s VFA-106 Tactical Demonstration Team from NAS Oceana, has joined the 2009 performer line-up for AIRSHO. We are excited to have the F/A-18C back in West Texas. As a special bonus for the show, the Commemorative Air Force’s own FM2 Wildcat will fly a Legacy Flight with the F/A-18. It is amazing to see a state-of–the-art modern fighter aircraft in close formation with a vintage fighter aircraft.
Don’t miss the opportunity to stop by the Autograph Tent and meet AIRSHO performers, Demo Team members and Warbird pilots after they fly. The Autograph Tent will be located beside the WWII Veterans Tent in the main plaza.
You still have time to purchase your discount advance AIRSHO tickets. Remember, you can even purchase these tickets at home online, at your convenience, by clicking here. Don’t miss out on all the fun and excitement. AIRSHO 2009 is the place to be!
Gena
9-20-09
Have you ever dreamed of being part of a crew flying a big bomber aircraft, or soaring through the sky in a fast P-51 Mustang? How about feeling the wind in your hair as you fly in a PT-17 Stearman? Did you know that this dream can come alive at the CAF AIRSHO? That’s right! Many of the CAF aircraft will be selling rides in these and other historic WWII aircraft. Plan ahead and reserve your seat now by contacting the CAF Units directly for prices and availability.
See you at AIRSHO!
Gena
09/16/09
Here are a few exciting updates on AIRSHO:
All active U.S. Military members with a current military I.D. will receive FREE admission to AIRSHO.
The B-1B from the 28th Bomb Squadron out of Dyess Air Force Base has scheduled a flyover the AIRSHO at 12:30 p.m. on both Sat. & Sun.. Remember we will also have a B-1 “Bone” on static display for you to view.
This year visit the new “Jr. Aces” Tent for kids. There will be face painting, gliders, craft projects and much more! Basin PBS has a surprise for the kids; “Word Girl” will be in the tent also.
AIRSHO is a great chance for the whole family to come out and have fun. See you there!
Gena
09/10/09
Grab your hat and join us Sat. and Sun. at AIRSHO, Oct. 10-11, 2009! Each morning the gates will open at 7:30 a.m. This is a great time to view all of the aircraft on the ramps before the flying starts around 10:30 am.
The World War II trainer aircraft will take to the sky for “America Trains for War,” the first Air Performance. At 10:45 a.m. the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) will welcome new members with commissioning of new CAF Colonels will take place right on the taxi way in front of the announcers stand. Next in the line up will be a parade to honor the inductees from the American Combat Airman Hall of Fame (ACAHOF). Also included in the parade will be the “WASP,” Women Air Force Service Pilots. We salute this generation of heroes.
This show has more flying vintage warbirds than any other show. The performance will begin with opening ceremonies, Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem accompanied by a flyover from the Air National Guard F-16s. Throughout the day you will see astonishing aerobatic displays from the Seafury, Corsair, P-51, Skyraider, Extra, Pitts and Swiftfury. The sky will come alive during TORA TORA TORA. You will marvel at the recreated battles of the Pacific and European Theatres of World War II. The Korean/Vietnam battles will hold you spell bound as you witness their flying power. From past to present, you will be thrilled by current day U. S. Military aircraft as you watch demonstrations by the F-16 West Demo Team and the C-17 Globemaster. Finally, have your cameras ready for an appearance from the B-52 Bomber flying overhead.
As the flying concludes, static displays will re-open for more viewing opportunities. But wait, that’s not all. Immediately following the show on Saturday your ticket is good for the first annual CAF RETRO USO SHOW complete with live entertainment in the Commemorative Center Hanger, right off the runway. Take a Step Back in Time as you laugh, listen and dance to the sounds of the 1940s.
Now this is a GREAT AIRSHO!
Gena
09/01/09
I want to make sure everyone is aware of all the exciting events that are going to take place Fri., Oct. 9 at AIRSHO.
The morning will begin with a “Special Show for Special People” from 10-11 a.m. Buses full of children and adults who are unable to attend a full day of AIRSHO are provided the opportunity to watch as the U.S. Air Force F-16 West Demo Team performs amazing aerial maneuvers for the audience. Jan Collmer in the FINA Extra 300 will thrill spectators with a breathtaking performance. Next in the lineup will be Mike “Spanky” Gallaway providing an astonishing aerobatic display in his Pitts Special. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, you’ll see movie stuntman J.W. “Corkey” Fornof put his fast and maneuverable LoPresti Fury through wild cinematic stunts.
From 10 a.m. to noon, to coincide with the Special Show, we are inviting 6th graders from around the area to a free Junior Aces Show. This is the first time the entire region’s 6th graders will be invited to attend this special viewing. We are expecting a great deal of excitement and enthusiasm, as students get up close and personal with history and World War II aircraft.
At 11:30 a.m. you’ll want to have ticket in hand to attend the “Save the Girls” Luncheon in the Commemorative Center Hangar. This special luncheon helps support the CAF Air Power Museum’s collection of rare, authentic World War II aviation Nose Art®.
Starting at 3 p.m. is the General Membership meeting for all CAF members will be held in the Commemorative Center. The meeting includes awards, elections, and a chance to visit with Millennium Members. The Millennium Members are some of the first CAF Colonels and founders of the organization.
The American Combat Airman Hall of Fame (ACAHOF) induction ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. in downtown Midland at the Midland Center. This annual event honors men and women who have shown particular bravery and character in defense of our Nation. For ticket information call (432) 563-1000, ext. 2270.
The day is not over yet! The Commemorative Center Hangar will open its doors at 6 p.m. for the AIRSHO Reception, the official Kick-off party for the weekend. The reception is a perfect time to gather with old friends and meet some new ones.
What a great day and the beginning of a great AIRSHO weekend!
Gena
8/25/09
AIRSHO is almost here! Do you have your tickets? Discounted tickets are available online at www.commemorativeairforce.org or at FINA 7-Eleven stores in Midland or Odessa, Texas. Don't miss the excitement and purchase your tickets today! Right now we have over 75 planes confirmed to be at AIRHSO. I won't be surprised if the count tops out over 100 by show time. We will have many plane that are rare and not often seen at air shows. For example: I-16 Polikarpov, Fairey Swordfish, Fokker S-11, Antonov AN-2, Commonwealth CAF-25, Me-108 and Meyers OTW to name a few. As an added attraction to the AIRSHO, we will have World War II Living History Group Re-enactors lending their support to the show. You will be able to see first hand authentic uniforms, ground vehicles and encampments from World War II. Bring your camera and see history come to life as the re-enactors recreate the ground battle during the TORA TORA TORA flying segment. Come join the fun!7/10/09
90 days out from AIRSHO and the excitement is mounting! AIRSHO will feature realistic recreations of battles from World War II that will involve most of our bomber and fighter aircraft. But… today I want to tell you about the Vietnam segment. Imagine hearing the distinct sound of round engines, the ground below rumbles with the sounds of bombs bursting, strafing runs, and walls of fire. As you look up, the sky is alive with aircraft. You’ll witness first hand the power and ability of two Skyraiders, two A-26 Invaders, AC-47 Spooky, Mohawk, Caribou, and O-2. There will also be a Huey, a Cobra, and an extraction of a downed pilot being shot at by ground re-enactors. It’s going to be a pure adrenalin rush! Grab a front row seat, bring your camera and be a part of history! Better yet, check out the seating in the Fighter Chalet and let us take care of you.
Gena
4/22/09
We have great news, Altus Air Force Base, Okla. has confirmed they will support the AIRSHO with their C-17 Demo and static on Saturday and Sunday of the show. This type of demo will be a first for Midland!
Word has also come to us from Barksdale Air Force Base, La. that we are on the schedule for a crowd pleasing B-52 fly-over both days. I don’t even remember the last time the AIRSHO saw a B-52. Hey guys, this kind of news excites me!
The official phone call came from TBO at ACC to confirm the F-16 Viper West Coast Demo team for Midland. We can’t wait to show the team our West Texas Hospitality. Thank you ACC.
Gena
3/31/09
AIRSHO plans are going well.
There are so many behind the scenes details that most people don't think about that are vital to the sucess of the show. These of course being the non glamorous details,and they need to fall within budget. I'm talking about contracting for water, ice, trash bins, port-a-potties, etc.
Last weekend I attended the Florida International Air Show in Punta Gorda, Fla. On Friday afternoon while setting up the pyro field for the night show, I watched all of the aircraft arrivals.
Not intending to think about the Midland show, here's where my mind took me as I saw two T-45s landing. Two aircraft, two people each plane, that means 4 hotel rooms and 2 rent cars. Then a MH-53 landed. I thought, what's the crew count on that? Too many planes like that could blow my hotel budget. Needless to say, AIRSHO is for most on my mind.
In the next few weeks, I'll give you a list of aircraft expected at the show.
Gena
3/1/09
Hello AIRSHO fans!
As a first time AIRSHO Director, I’m excited to be planning the upcoming show in October. While it is still seven months away, I know it will be here in no time! My goal is to bring you information about the show and to also keep you updated on aircraft and acts as they unfold.
Air Combat Command (ACC) called last week and asked if we could support the Viper West Demo Team. My answer, of course, was YES! Now we’ll wait for the official confirmation from ACC.
The F-18C East Coast Demo Team is also scheduled for Midland. That’s great!
I’ll bring you more news soon. In the mean time, make your plans now to be at the FINA-CAF AIRSHO October 9-11, 2009!
Gena Linebarger
AIRSHO Chairman
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