Barksdale to host 2010 air show Published April 9, 2010 By Airman 1st Class Joseph Boals 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs BARKSDALE AFB, La -- Barksdale will open its gates to the public April 24 - 25 for the 2010 "Defenders of Liberty" air show and open house. The air show allows Barksdale to showcase the nation's Air Force and it's capabilities to residents of the local community. Headlining this year's air show are the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the premiere demonstration team of the Air Force. Also performing are Dan Buchanan, Jaquie B. Air Shows and the Aeroshell Aerobatic Team. Guests will also be treated to a performance by Les Shockley's Shockwave Jet Truck and an array of static displays on the ground. "Our open house is meant to educate our community on Air Force preparedness, modern weapon systems and capabilities," said Maj Tim Bell, air show director. "Opening our base to the public provides opportunities to showcase our mission and generates interest in the military and its role in national security. This is especially true here at Barksdale, the home of Air Force Global Strike Command, with a tradition lasting 76 years of amazing air shows." Those attending the air show will get an up-close-and-personal view of military aircraft and equipment both past and present. The air acts and static displays include civilian, military and vintage aircraft ranging from single-seat aerobatics to bombers. "Our relationship with the community is tremendously strong and that relationship has kept air shows here at Barksdale simply amazing," said Maj Joseph Babboni, air boss. For more information about this year's events, please visit the Defenders of Liberty air show Web site at www.barksdaleafbairshow.com.