KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Col. Michael Power, 377th Air Base Wing and installation commander, addressed a crowd at the International Balloon Fiesta on Saturday, expressing pride in the military’s connection to the Albuquerque community.
“Good evening, Balloon Fiesta! It’s a privilege to be here today,” Power said, highlighting the base’s significant presence in the region, with over 100 missions and nearly 25,000 personnel. “We love supporting this town, this state, and this community.”
Power emphasized the base’s commitment to national security, noting that despite the military's active-duty personnel numbering just over 4,000, the community aspect remains strong. “We are all people like you who live and work here in Albuquerque,” he stated.
Power also introduced the Air Force Academy Band’s pop music group, "Blue Delta," who traveled from Colorado Springs to perform at the fiesta. “You’ll hear everything from classic rock to top 40, R&B, and country,” Power said, encouraging the audience to show their appreciation.