Warbirds on Parade - 09/04/10, After Action and some more pictures

Events such as this year's Warbirds on Parade take a great deal of effort behind the scenes to make them a success. With a continuing interest in maintaining the success and safety of the event, the Cold War Air Museum, the DFW wing of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) and airport management joined together for an after action review.

We all sincerely appreciate the hard work, planning and cooperation that was provided by the City of Lancaster and most especially, the support provided by their excellent airport staff, including both the retiring airport manager, Arb Rylant and the new airport manager, Mike Divita. By working together, we hope to be able to provide more parking next year as well as better traffic flow for the spectators and aircraft that visit the event.

Following the review, we received copies of a number of excellent photographs taken by one of the CAF members. Our thanks go to their dedicated members for their work and a special thanks for sharing these pictures with us. This view from inside their hangar shows just a portion of the many aircraft and visitors at the event.

The B-24 made a repeat visit this year and with the success of the event, we are hopeful that the newly restored and flying B-29 may be in attendance next year.

Another special attraction was this beautifully restored P-40 Warhawk from the Cavanaugh Flight Museum in Addison, Texas. A rare sight indeed and a compliment to the area that so many aircraft could be gathered and put on display.

Events such as this often include "Re-enactors" or those who like to collect, wear or display military uniforms and equipment. The Mi-2 and Mi-24 appearing in flight behind one of these displays appeared eerily appropriate.

Our special thanks are again extended to the U.S. Army, First Cav. for bringing aircraft to the event. In today's world of mixed forces, the sight of an Mi-24 and UH-60 together is not as rare or startling as it once would have been.

The UH-60 Black Hawk was one of the biggest crowd gatherers at the event. The POW/MIA flag seen in the foreground was displayed by the UH-1H that flew to the event. Every event such as this also serves to honor and commemorate the memory of those who have served.

This CH-47 appears as if it is about to leap forward into flight. The actual takeoff maneuver was a leap in slow motion, graceful and impressive.

The CH47 and Black Hawk are the mainstay of U.S. ground combat air mobility. The opportunity for the public to see them together at this event was appreciated by many.

The Black Hawk quickly followed the Chinook on its way home. We appreciate the fine men and women of our services and their dedication to our country.