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‘America's Heroes’

  • Published
  • By Col. Rick Martin
  • 305th Air Mobility Wing commander
MCGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, NJ. --  On behalf of Team McGuire, welcome to the 2007 Air Expo & Open House! This year we're celebrating 60 years of Air Force heritage, and we are delighted to have this opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities of the world's premier air and space power. Team McGuire is a member of Air Mobility Command, charged with providing airlift, air refueling, special air mission and aeromedical evacuation for U.S. forces to theater commands to support wartime tasking. 

While the precision of flight is impressive, this spectacular event would not be possible without the dedication of the phenomenal men and women of Team McGuire -- the backbone supporting the mission. As a growing joint base, Team McGuire not only encompasses Airmen, but also includes Soldiers from Fort Dix and Sailors from Naval Air and Engineering Station Lakehurst. I have the privilege to serve with the best and brightest; take some time this weekend to observe and dialogue with these professional servicemembers. 

The first real Open House-Air Show in McGuire history was in December 1945. The base's mission was highly sensitive, as units and their equipment shipped out of Fort Dix for the war zones in Europe and Africa. As well, the very first guided missiles and bombs were tested at Fort Dix ranges. As a consequence, it took a while for the sensitivity of the mission to wane sufficiently to allow the local community access. What a show they enjoyed that year -- the United States' first operational jet, the P-59 Airacomet was on static display, along with the war-winning B-17 Flying Fortress and B-25 Mitchell bombers, and the leading-edge medium bomber, the A-26B Invader. The crowds who entered Fort Dix Army Air Forces Field also got to admire the P-51 Mustang, P-47 Thunderbolt, the P-38 Lightning (always a special reminder of local legend Maj. Thomas B. McGuire, Jr.), and that airlift classic, the C-47 "Gooney bird." The message within the visitor's handbook resonates still: 

"These are the planes of today. They will be obsolete tomorrow. They are here today. They will be junked tomorrow. But America will be here -- today -- and tomorrow if Americans do their duty. If Americans serve their country. Enlist today to protect tomorrow!" 

Thanks to all who serve, the families who support us and the communities who embrace us! 

Please enjoy the show and have a safe trip home. Can Do!