Air Force Week takes off with Bridesburg parade

Published May 27, 2008

McGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. -- Air Force Week in Philadelphia kicked off with the United Veterans of Bridesburg Memorial Day Parade Monday in Bridesburg, Penn.

The first official event of Air Force Week, which runs through June 2, featured members of Team McGuire who provided a flyover, a military formation and music by the U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band.

"It's a great opportunity to tell the Air Force story as we celebrate Air Force Week," said Gen. Arthur Lichte, Air Mobility Command commander. "I am proud to not only represent the 130,000 men and women of Air Mobility Command, but also every member of the Armed Forces on this Memorial Day."

"I watch the parade every Memorial Day and it gets bigger and bigger," said Marsha Janczewski, Bridesburg resident. "It was an awesome flyby, and I love seeing the military members in my city."

The parade, one of the oldest Memorial Day traditions in the region, was followed by an 'Air Force Showcase' at the Bridesburg Recreation Center on Richmond Street, during which attendees experienced the Air Force's capabilities through the Explosive Ordnance Disposal robot, Military Working Dog demonstrations, the Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard Falconer.

"Air Force Week provides us with a unique opportunity to tell our story and expose the public to the great accomplishments that we achieve every day," said Lt. Col. John Clark, Air Force Week event planner. "We dedicate our time and resources into developing the future leaders of America. This event will clearly demonstrate mission success."

Air Force Week will culminate with the 2008 McGuire Air Expo, featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration team, May 31 and June 1.

For more information, visit www.airforceweekinphiladelphia.com.