American Heroes Celebration - April 19-20, 2008

  • Published
  • By Cheryl Barbeau
AUSTIN, Texas (April, 2008) --  In less than 30 days the usually quiet Camp Mabry will become a place buzzing with activity, everything from a dozen or more helicopters landing for display, cannons being fired, children's laughter from the miniature train rides, battle sounds from re- enactments of WWII and live music from the Wes Nickson band.
     Texas Military Forces and the American Heroes Air Show Aviation Network have combined efforts to celebrate heroes past and present. Ordinary people who perform extraordinary acts to save others' lives on a daily basis. These heroes are in civilian and military jobs. They put themselves at risk because it is their job and a part of who they are.
     The event begins with the grand opening of the Soldier and Airmen Support Center and the Signing of the Army Covenant. This occasion marks a few of the many ways the Texas Military Forces shows their commitment to soldiers from the past, currently and for the future.
     Saturday's American Heroes Air Show portion of the celebration highlights the helicopters and their crews. The public gets a chance to talk to the crews and see their aircraft up close. There will be an EC -145 from STAR Flight, an EC 120 from Austin Police Department and the Cavanaugh Flight Museum will showcase their Bell 47. Helicopter demonstrations are also scheduled.
     Both Saturday and Sunday visitors can see everything from the newest technology in communications and flight to 1830s military uniforms, Buffalo Soldiers, and World War II tanks and battle reenactments. The public can enjoy the pedestal jousting, mechanical bull riding, laser tag, bungee run, a food court and more. If that isn't enough then you can also visit the Texas Military Forces Museum to see various vendors, static displays from past and present, peruse the book sale and sit in the cockpit of an F-16. Oh and there is a chance both days to win an iPod.
     The two day event also involves giving back to the community. There are two blood drives on Saturday and a food drive for the Capital Area Food Bank. Free Parking, free admittance, and shuttles to carry from activity to activity - you can't ask for more. Join us at Camp Mabry from 9-4 on April 19th and 20th to celebrate the heroes of Texas.
     For more information visit www.texasnationalguard.us/