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PACAF C-17 Demonstration Team at JBLM

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Jessica Colby
  • 15th Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii --  The Pacific Air Forces C-17 Aerial Demonstration Team, the only active C-17 Globemaster III demonstration team, performed at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Air Expo 2012 at McChord Field, Washington on July 21 through 22.

The air exposition presented 20 aerial performers, and more than 40 static military and civilian aircraft from across the United States. In addition to numerous aviation centric displays, the show was the largest demonstration ever held at McChord Field with more than 170,000 spectators.

Spectators of all ages, both military and civilian cheered in excitement for the 12-minute exhibition highlighting the capabilities of the military transport aircraft. The profile included a maximum power takeoff and climb, a high speed pass, a slow speed pass, a 360-degree turn, an assault landing, and an immediate backing on the runway. The visual show was complimented by a custom soundtrack and a narration given by Capt. Angela Kimler, narrator for the PACAF C-17 Demonstration Team, and pilot with the 535th Airlift Squadron.

"It was great hearing about the aircraft while it was flying," said Frances Ross, Seattle resident and attendant at the JBLM Air Expo 2012. "It really helps the crowd understand what's going on and to appreciate the recent and current missions of the C-17."

Air Expo 2012 was historic for another reason, as it marks the first air show hosted by JBLM as a joint base at full operational capability.

The successful display of joint service operations hit home with an aircrew member of the demo team from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

"As a former member of JBLM and current member of JBPHH, it's interesting to see the growth of the U.S. Army and Air Force as they strengthen their ties," said Capt. Adrian Martin, C-17 demonstration team pilot.

The JBLM Air Expo kicked off the 2012 demonstration season. Currently, there are six scheduled performances. The team will perform close to home at the Kaneohe Bay Airshow, at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, as well as international locations such as Japan and India.

The next performance for the PACAF C-17 Aerial Demonstration Team is the Yokota Friendship Festival in Japan this August.