DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- More than 45,000 spectators looked to the skies above West Texas as Dyess hosted the Wings Over West Texas: A Salute to Western Heritage Airshow, April 19-20.
The event marked the return of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds to Dyess after a ten-year absence, capping off two days of aerial performances, static aircraft displays, and family-friendly activities.
“It’s not often that we get to open our gates to our friends and partners from across the Big Country,” said Col. Seth Spanier, 7th Bomb Wing and installation commander. “Thank you to everyone who chose to spend your weekend here, celebrating the best of airpower at America’s Lift and Strike base.”
While 18 aerial acts thrilled the crowds, the airshow also provided a powerful demonstration of bomber aircraft evolution. Spectators witnessed roaring flybys of Dyess' own B-1B Lancer representing modern airpower. Reaching back in time, the skies welcomed the B-29 Superfortress, a World War II giant, and the B-25 Mitchell, famed for daring missions like the Doolittle Raid.
A highlight of the show was a combined B-1B Lancer and C-130J Super Hercules Joint Forcible Entry demonstration, a powerful display of Dyess’ unique capabilities. A JFE is a critical military operation involving the rapid and decisive insertion of forces into a contested area. The demonstration showcased the coordinated might of the B-1B's long-range strike capability, suppressing enemy defenses, followed by the C-130J delivering troops and equipment directly onto the objective. This complex maneuver required coordination between aircraft and personnel, underscoring the vital role Dyess plays in projecting American airpower and responding to global crises.
“Every day, our bomber and cargo aircraft teams work tirelessly, side-by-side, to get the mission done,” said Spanier. “This demonstration highlights the unmatched capabilities of America's only Lift and Strike base, showcasing the teamwork and precision that make our Airmen the best in the world.”
Meanwhile, a dedicated Kids Zone offered more than 30 science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics activities, aiming to spark curiosity in the next generation about Air Force careers.
"Our goal is to plant seeds of possibility," said Darci Hodges, 7th Force Support Squadron school liaison program manager. "Through hands-on activities, kids can see how STEAM skills translate into exciting real-world applications within the Air Force.
The U.S. Air Force Demonstration Team “Thunderbirds” closed out both days of the airshow, soaring through the skies above Dyess in their signature F-16 Fighting Falcons.
“This airshow represents a year of incredibly hard work by so many. It's really rewarding to see how all the different layers of the team came together to make it a success,” said Lt. Col Nathan Jenkins, airshow director.
Col. Spanier emphasized the collective effort behind the event's success, recognizing the dedication of Dyess Airmen and the strong partnership with the local community.
“It’s important to recognize that this weekend is more than an airshow; it’s a celebration of our community,” said Spanier. “We’re deeply grateful to our neighbors in Abilene and the Big Country for their unwavering support. Abilene has proven to be the most welcoming area for our Airmen. Your support fuels the mission every day. I’m so glad we got to spend this weekend showing you a bit more of what we do.”