July 23, 2014
2014 Arctic Thunder Air Show
[dropcap]I[/dropcap]ts that time again! Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson will be hosting the 2014 Arctic Thunder Air Show, July 26 & 27. This is a community open house celebration, with an open invitation, giving civilians an inside look at not only the day-to-day operations, but a glimpse at some of the most high-tech resources our military trains with. There will be static aircraft displays for patrons to walk through, as well as ground demonstrations featuring the Air Force Band and Army Band, military working dogs, and many informational booths to check out and enjoy. In addition to everything on the ground, JBER has a schedule lined out, that is packed full of impressive aerial demonstrations and stunts. A few of the highlights being: F-22 Raptor demonstrations, Paratrooper drops, aerial stunt pilots, the Warbirds fly-by, and of course the always awe-inspiring USAF Thunderbird performance. Please keep in mind, all of these stunts and demonstrations will be weather permitting and you may experience slight delays and cancelations. JBER treats this event with the utmost safety and precaution, ensuring all military personnel and attending civilians will be safe while spectating at this weekends event. Arctic Thunder is a biennial show but we have picked up a few tips along the way so read 'em or weep:
- Hearing protection for you and you kiddo's, this is a very loud event.
- Sun glasses most of the aerial events you will be looking high into the sky for make sure you bring glasses for you and the kids to make viewing more enjoyable.
- Sunscreen or a rain coat. Look at your weather report of choice and plan accordingly. There is very little shelter for both sun or rain on the runway.
- Water bottles, there will be food and drink vendors for soda and water available but the base will be providing free refill stations for water so save yourself a few bucks or buy an extra corn cob.
- Camp chairs, after hours of standing it sure is nice to have a chair to sit in but don't be "that guy" that is rude and pushy when people crowd in to get a closer look, we are all in this together.
- AND don't forget the camera! This is a memory making event, your kids will do cute stuff and the Thunderbirds never disappoint, do miss it.
- Not a must have but nice if you remember, add you binoculars to the list because the paratrooper drop is always neat to see through good glass.
- Lastly, like every good Alaskan pack for the four seasons, bring a sweatshirt or raincoat and good footwear, the walk to the car is generally a long one.
