Fourth of July to be event of the summer

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman David Dobrydney
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  The 48th Fighter and 100th Air Refueling Wings will once again be hosting their annual Fourth of July celebration at RAF Feltwell next week.

"It's the premier community event of the year," said Keith Beaumont, 48th Force Support Squadron event coordinator, who has been helping organize the annual event for the past 18 years.

A highlight this year will be an aerial display by the Royal Air Force Red Arrows, beginning at 6 p.m.

"This is only the second year that we have had flying displays at RAF Feltwell, and we are pleased to welcome the RAF Aerobatics Team," said Mr. Beaumont.

In addition to the Red Arrows, there is to be a repeat of last year's aerial performance of the Battle of Britain memorial flight, including Spitfires and a Lancaster bomber. The 'Sally B,' the only airworthy B-17 Flying Fortress bomber in Europe, is expected to return as well.

The aircraft will be one of several attractions at this year's event. A car and motorcycle show is on the agenda, as well as displays of military vehicles.

"It's really a military open house," said Mr. Beaumont, "a demonstration day of the activities that go on at the two bases."

There will also be live entertainment from both the U.S. Air Forces in Europe Wings of Dixie Band and Stephen Kellogg & the Sixers, appearing through Armed forces Entertainment.

When attendees get hungry, they will have a choice of 34 food vendors from on and off-base selling a wide range of food from pulled pork to funnel cakes to Filipino food.

Of course, the Fourth of July offers something more than just food, fast rides and fireworks.

"It brings together the American and British communities like no other and builds on our long-standing relations," said Lt. Col. Kevin Heckle, 48th Force Support Squadron commander.

"It's an amazing synergy between RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall incorporating numerous base organizations to ensure a great time is had by all."