JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- Team Hickam held its second Wings of Aloha event September 12-13, 2025, featuring aircraft displays, career field booths and a flyover demonstration.
The Wings of Aloha event is centered on building relationships between the local community and the servicemembers who live and work alongside them. By opening the gates of Hickam Field, Wings of Aloha gave residents a unique, hands-on experience to learn about aviation and career paths across multiple branches of the military.
The first day of the event was reserved for local schools to attend. Over 650 students from across Oahu had the first opportunity to visit the installation, tour static aircraft and receive educational briefs from Airmen and joint service members about operations on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and surrounding installations.
Governor Josh Green shared his thoughts on local school involvement, stating “just to be able to see the installation up close is something really to behold. It’s important to us because we want to inspire these kids. Hundreds of children came through and saw what their future could be.”
On Sept. 13, the event opened for the local community, welcoming over 3,000 attendees. Hickam Field expanded its efforts this year by adding new static aircraft displays, a flyover and a performance from the U.S. Air Force Band of the Pacific.
“As you look around at all the amazing things that the men and women in all the branches of the military bring and do on a daily basis,” said Gen. Kevin Schneider, Pacific Air Forces commander, while addressing attendees. “This is a great opportunity to talk to the professionals that are making it happen every day.”
Among the featured aircraft were a C-5 Galaxy and a KC-46 Pegasus, brought in from mainland Air Mobility Command installations, giving civilians a chance to experience the capabilities of a large cargo aircraft and a next generation refueling airframe.
U.S. Navy Capt. Samuel White, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam commander, shared his appreciation for community support and welcomed attendees.
The open house approach served as a meaningful way to connect with the local community and allowed the public to step onto the flightline and experience what it’s like to work at Hickam Field.
“I want to thank you all for being here. It's your attendance that encourages us and builds the community we need and enjoy,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Garrett Fisher, 15th Wing commander. “This is our way of giving back and showing you what Team Hickam does every day.”
Throughout the event, military members across all branches provided insight into their daily lives by sharing their knowledge and experience of their aircraft, equipment and life in the military.
Wings of Aloha continues to serve as a bridge between local and military communities, strengthening connections and offering a firsthand look at the missions, people and aircraft that define life at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. As the event grows, it carries the potential to deepen mutual understanding and foster lasting connections, setting the stage for more engagement in the years to come.