OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Osan Air Base hosted approximately 80,000 visitors during Air Power Day 2016, Sept. 24 and 25, highlighting the alliance between the U.S. and the Republic of Korea while using the opportunity to get to know one another better as good friends and good neighbors.
There were 22 Pacific Air Forces and ROK air force aircraft on display while multiple aerial acts took to the sky. The main act was the Republic of Korea air force premiere demonstration team, the Black Eagles, who illustrated their combat flying capabilities in eight T-50B training aircraft.
“It’s been amazing seeing the team come together to put this air show together,” said Maj. Jonathan Garner, Air Power Day director. “We’ve been working on this air show since December 2015 with a lot of detailed planning working with our host nation and partners.”
Other aerial demonstrations included a C-17 Globemaster III, F-16 Flying Falcon, a KT-1 Woongbi , a TA-50 Golden Eagle, and a combat search and rescue demonstration.
Service members and Korean families were entertained by performers such as the ROKAF Band, the 8th Army Band, a martial arts demo, a Korean drumming group, and a special concert from headliner Sublime with Rome.
“It was all hands on deck for Air Power Day this weekend, and a truly incredible event was created that allowed our Korean neighbors and friends from around the globe to witness the mission and partnership of the U.S. and Republic of Korea,” said Col. Andrew Hansen, 51st Fighter Wing commander. “I hope everyone had a fantastic time enjoying the largest air show ever at Osan.”
Between the busy schedule of events, numerous food booths lining the flight line, and fantastic entertainment, this year’s air show gave a great opportunity to build relationships between the U.S. and the ROK.