Base commander welcomes all to 2008 air show, open house

Published April 8, 2008
By Col. Robert Wheeler
2d Bomb Wing Commander

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- I'd like to welcome our friends and neighbors from the Ark-La-Tex, as well as visitors from across the country, to Barksdale's 2008 "Defenders of Liberty " Air Show and Open House.

This year we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of Barksdale "From Cotton Fields to Cyberspace."
We've enjoyed a close relationship with the Shreveport-Bossier City community throughout our time in the area. Our tradition of hospitality continues as we showcase the warriors and war birds--of the past and present--in a jam-packed, two-day family event.

Spectacular aerial performances will demonstrate both the power of military aircraft and the skills of civilian aviators. We'll also feature an up-close-and-personal look at an array of airplanes and other military equipment that reflect our proud military history.

I encourage you to speak with the men and women in uniform assisting in making this open house possible. They're your neighbors and they're committed to serving on the front line in our nation's defense.

It's my hope that you'll share my appreciation for what makes the Air Force the most powerful air, space and cyber force in the world. The Mighty Deuce is "first in peace, first in war and first to victory."

NOTE: For more information about this year's events and acts, please go to the official Defenders of Liberty Airshow and Open House website at http://www.barksdaleafbairshow.com. For those that can't join us in this year's celebration, feel free to view and enjoy the airshow live via the official website.