Excitement soars during WOW 2015

by Airman 1st Class Aaron J. Jenne
4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

5/19/2015 - SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C.  -- More than 200,000 people visited Seymour Johnson Air Force Base for the 2015 Wings Over Wayne Airshow and Open House, May 16 and 17.

The event featured numerous aerial and ground performances from multiple military and civilian performers, as well as static displays of dozens of the Air Force's most prominent aircraft for spectators to view up-close.

"This airshow didn't just happen," said Lt. Col. James Ladd, 2015 WOW Airshow and Open House director. "Through months of diligent planning and with the expertise of several agencies, including the 4th Fighter Wing; local law enforcement; emergency medical services; state, county and local governments; we were able to host the largest number of spectators in the history of Wings Over Wayne."

The show was highlighted by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds aerial demonstration team. The group performed a myriad of acrobatic aerial maneuvers and precise formations to demonstrate the many capabilities of the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

"I hope everyone had a great time, and they felt inspired," said Capt. Alexander Goldfein, U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds pilot number three. "We want to show what the jets are capable of, and even more importantly, what the Airmen are capable of. Hopefully, everyone left excited about the opportunities there are in our Air Force."

While many of the performances focused on showcasing the abilities of both aircraft and aircrews, including the 4th FW's very own F-15E Strike Eagles, others provided a different style of entertainment.

The Commemorative Air Force's "Tora! Tora! Tora!" demonstration team recreated the Dec. 7, 1941, Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor with six World War II reproduction Japanese airplanes. The show stood as an active history lesson and memorial to those who lost their lives that day.

Free concerts closed out both days of the airshow. North Carolina native and national recording artist, Kellie Pickler, performed Saturday night, and Sunday was closed out by American Idol finalist, Majesty Rose, who is also one of Goldsboro's own.

Overall, the airshow delivered a variety of attractions for the masses to enjoy.

"I appreciate all who spent their weekend with us," Ladd said. "I feel like our base hosted all of North Carolina for a weekend, and I'm really happy with the way the events turned out. If I could say one thing to all of those who thanked me, it would be to thank them in return for their support. I've been stationed in several states, I've been to different countries, and there's never been any outpour of support and respect for military members like there is here. Thank you very much, North Carolina. We salute you!"