CAF Doesn't Want The Economy To Keep Anyone Away

In response to the difficult economy, the 2009 Commemorative Air Force (CAF) AIRSHO  presented by Western National Bank (WNB) takes a step back in time with ticket pricing at just $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 6 to 12 when purchased in advance. The Best Warbird Show in America will hit the skies Oct. 10 -11, 2009 above Midland International Airport between Midland and Odessa, Texas.

"We are all facing tough economic times where the cost of nearly every item is increasing, but we are working to present the best air show in CAF history at REDUCED ticket prices this year," said CAF President, Stephan Brown. "With the support of Western National Bank and other sponsors, we want to give families an event that will be exciting and a good memory during this difficult period. In 2009, a family of four will be able to attend for only $40. No where else can you find world-class family entertainment for this price."

"We are excited to showcase the F-16 Viper West Coast Demo Team and Heritage Flight, as well as a demonstration from the C-17 Globemaster," said AIRSHO Director, Gena Linebarger.  "We hope the crowd will enjoy seeing a fly-over by the B-52 Stratofortress.  Also, on static display will be a wide variety of other modern military aircraft ranging from trainers to the B-1 Bomber." More details will be released soon.

For the first time, the CAF is hosting The Retro USO Show, a Saturday night USO-style show immediately following AIRSHO.  The program will feature live entertainment to rival the glamor and excitement of the WWII USO shows that brought a piece of home to the men and women protecting our freedom overseas. Admission to the evening show will be free for those who have purchased AIRSHO tickets. Food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the event. The Fighter and Bomber Ramps will also re-open for anyone interested in getting an up-close look at the warbirds.

At AIRSHO 2009, you can expect to see a tribute to the Vietnam veterans better then ever before. The longer segment will showcase an A-26, Skyraider, C-47, period helicopters and other aircraft from the Vietnam and Korean era in aerial reenactments of the battles.

In true CAF style, AIRSHO will also feature recreated historic battles of World War II using the CAF's collection of rare warbirds. The show will include aerial dogfights, simulated bomb explosions that rock the ground and a recreation of the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by the Tora, Tora, Tora pilots.

For the first time, AIRSHO will also include dramatic ground force reenactments to complement the stories told by the warbirds in flight. This new dimension will give audiences a unique look at the trials of the American military service men and women during our country's most turbulent times.

FMI: www.commemorativeairforce.org