N.M. Air Force Bases 60th Anniversary Celebration one for history books

  • Published
  • By Sheila Rupp
  • Nucleus Staff
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, New Mexico --  The three New Mexico Air Force bases added another chapter in the Air Force history book as they came together to celebrate 60 years of air and space power Sept. 14.

Kirtland AFB, Holloman AFB and Cannon AFB joined forces to commemorate the Air Force's 60th anniversary at the Sandia Resort for a day jam-packed with activities for the Air Force family and the surrounding communities.

Nearly 100 people hit the fairways of the Sandia Golf Club for the New Mexico Air Force Bases 60th Anniversary Golf Tournament to kickoff the day's events. Golfers had clear skies and high temperatures to enjoy their time out on the course.

More than 35 displays featuring Air Force and Department of Defense contractors demonstrated air and space capabilities throughout the resort and outside. The Air Force NASCAR toured the grounds and the driver revved the engine for onlookers at the display. Several aircraft were on static display outside, including a CV-22 Osprey and an HH-60 Pave Hawk. Military working dogs and their handlers also showed off their skills to crowds watching the highly-trained canines.

The U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team wowed crowds that filled the sweltering amphitheater to see the unrivaled talent and choreography the team exudes. Onlookers watched as the team hurled their 11-pound weapons overhead while performing an intricate routine.

The public displays and activities were further highlighted by flyovers by an F-4, an F-16 Fighting Falcon and an F-117A Nighthawk. A C-130 dropped pararescuemen who descended onto resort property carrying the Air Force, New Mexico, American and POW/MIA flags.

A by-invitation only dinner reception culminated the day of events. Diners were treated to a wonderful meal and fine entertainment. A special choir composed of Team Kirtland singers sang the national anthem and the U.S. Honor Guard Drill Team performed their jaw-dropping routine.

Guest speaker, the 16th Air Force Chief of Staff retired Gen. Ronald Fogleman, moved the crowd by talking about his pride in the Air Force and how far the Air Force has come.

The crowd was also treated to a parade of heritage uniforms, showcasing the evolution of the Air Force uniform through the years. Platinum-selling artist Lee Greenwood serenaded the room with his patriotic anthem, "God Bless the USA" and other songs. The Band of the West rounded out the evening, performing into the wee hours of the morning until the dancers could dance no more.

"It was such a splendid evening; I believe it touched each and every one of us. The concert by Lee Greenwood was very special ... He sings the words that hopefully everyone feels in their hearts - proud!" said Kristen Murren, wife of 377th Aerospace Medicine Squadron Capt. Bruce Murren, who recently left on a deployment.

The celebration brought the Airmen of the three New Mexico bases together, along with their families and the public. Congresswoman Heather Wilson, representatives from state and local government, a dozen retired general officers, any many business and community leaders were among the distinguished guests who attended the ball along with base leaders, civilian employees, Airmen of all ranks and family members.

"We set out to showcase what the Air Force means to the state of New Mexico and we achieved exactly that," said Col. Mohsen Parhizkar, 377th Air Base Wing vice commander and New Mexico Air Force Bases 60th Anniversary Celebration committee chairperson.

Colonel Parhizkar and a team of more than 100 committee members worked planning the event for approximately seven months to make it an event that no one will forget.