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Airmen work hand-in-hand for Shaw air show

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Alexandria Mosness
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Despite the hot weather, thousands of people flooded the gates here to see the mission and capabilities of today's Air Force at Shaw's biennial air show May 8 and 9.

From the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, to static aircraft displays and many aerial performances, ShawFest 2010 had something to offer for everyone in attendance.

"Shaw Air Force Base has opened their gates to the American public to highlight and meet the great Airmen," said Col. Joe Guastella, 20th Fighter Wing commander. "It can't get any better for the public at the show. It's an opportunity to show what we have."

Although Colonel Guastella loved all the acts, he does have a little bias on who was his favorite.

"I love everybody, but our own Viper East demo team does have a bit of advantage," he added. "Our Airmen, aircrew and pilots were able to show the public an airfield attack, and while this is just for the show, it demonstrated to the public the capabilities of combat power."

With more than 80,000 in attendance for the whole weekend, those working the concessions and booths stayed busy.

"It has been a fun and hectic weekend," said Barb Bonnette, who was working the 20th Contracting Squadron's drink stand. "It was exciting to work together to help the community and rewarding to see the smiles on the customers' faces."

Not only was the public able to enjoy and see the mission of the Air Force, but there were many Airmen who worked hard to make sure no incidents occurred. With the amount of people who came to ShawFest, one thing was not sacrificed for the show - security.

"Generally, we arrive a couple of hours before the community to get set up and make sure everything is good to go," said Staff Sgt. Mel Underwood, 20th Security Forces Squadron corrections NCO-in-charge. "We have assisted with the medical emergencies and lost children situations."

And while there were no major problems for security forces throughout ShawFest, the 20th SFS teamed up with local Sumter law enforcement to work long hours and ensure the safety of the community, Sergeant Underwood added.

Those in attendance might not have seen the inner workings of the air show, but the gratitude was overwhelming.

"I brought my children out today to see the planes, but most importantly to show them and help them understand what the armed forces do for us," said Joe Jeffrey, an Irmo, S.C., resident

Appreciation was not the only thing, the public was talking about.

"My favorite planes have to be the F-16s," added Jeffrey who has been to four air shows. "I love the modern jets."

With one more air show behind Shaw AFB, Colonel Guastella expressed his thankfulness.

"My message to everyone who helped or worked on ShawFest 2010 is a giant thank you and a hug if possible," the commander said. "I know you have worked overtime and long hours to make the air show a success, and I sincerely appreciate it."

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