Courtesy NC Press Release
Courtesy NC Press Release
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, NC – After a four-year hiatus due to congressional sequestration, Seymour Johnson’s 2015 Wings Over Wayne Air Show returned May 16-17 and thrilled an estimated 220,000 aerial enthusiasts. Attendance soared past a record crowd of 175,000 in 2011 and exceeded expectations for 2015.
The event featured 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 in the 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 U.S. Naval Station Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, 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!”
“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.”
Robert B Butler, NCPressRelease, and Airman 1st Class Aaron Jenne, 4th FW SJAFB
Photo Galleries (Air Show and Pre-Air Show Photo and FAQ Galleries):
Photo Gallery of the 2015 Seymour Johnson Air Show (event photos)
“One of the World’s Best Air Shows” (pre-show)
USAF Drill Team Photos (pre-show)
Gene Soucy – “Mr. Airshow” (pre-show)
Wings Over Wayne 2015 Airshow (pre-show)
For additional information about the Seymour Johnson Wings Over Wayne Air Show for 2015, see this press release.
