DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --
The public and base members are invited to the free Dyess Big Country Air & Space Expo scheduled May 12 and 13 on the flightline at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. Gates will open to the public at 9 a.m. and acts are scheduled to start at approximately 10:30 a.m.
This expo is an opportunity for Team Dyess to interact with the community and showcase the U.S. Air Force’s heritage and air superiority, in addition to the professionalism and expertise of other U.S. military branches and civilian acts.
The following aerial performances are scheduled: Tora Tora Tora, B-17 Texas Raiders, Twin Tigers, Vietnam search-and-rescue re-enactment, Viper Pitts, United States Air Force Academy Wings of Blue parachute team, B-1B Lancer, C-130J Super Hercules, Jason Newburg, Ron Cain, Air Combat Command Viper F-16 Demonstration and Heritage Flight Team, and a T-28 Trojan formation.
Tora, Tora, Tora is set to be the highlight of the show. This act is designed as a living history lesson of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor Dec. 7, 1941. This act is intended as a memorial to service members who lost their lives in World War II.
With Tora, Tora, Tora, the Vietnam SAR re-enactment, and other historical aircraft on aerial display, the public will get a look at our history, said Maj. Joseph Johnson, expo director and B-1B weapons systems operator.
“We’ve dominated the sky for years and it excites me to give the public a glimpse of the past and present of airpower,” said Johnson. “We’re ready to execute a great airshow and give back to the community for their constant support.”
The following static displays are also slated to be present: F-15 Eagle, KC-135 Stratotanker, F-22 Raptor, T-6A Texan II, T-44A Pegasus, CV-22 Osprey, C-17 Globemaster III, EA-18G Growler, T-1 Jayhawk, B-17 Flying Fortress, HH-60 Pave Hawk, T-38 Talon, B-1B, and C-130J.
These aircraft will be accompanied by subject-matter experts who will give tours and answer questions.
Exhibits will be present, including a car and motorcycle show and the 12th Armored Division. The 12th AD will display weapons and machinery from WWII.
“Not only will you get to be up close and personal with the machines that do the mission every day, you’ll get to meet the Airman the work the systems behind the scenes,” said Col. Brandon Parker, 7th Bomb Wing commander. “We want to see you here for this air and space expo. It promises to be a wonderful event.”
Important visitor information
All Department of Defense ID cardholders will enter the base at the Arnold Gate, which is located on Arnold Boulevard. The general public and non-DOD personnel will enter through the Tye Gate on Military Drive.
Traffic delays are to be expected due to the amount of vehicles attempting to access the base through the two entrances. Guests are encouraged to keep the delays in mind when planning their commute to the base. For overall safety and security of the event, all visitors are subject to search by 7th Security Forces Squadron members. Random vehicle searches are to be expected at both gates. Possession and use of marijuana is illegal on Dyess or any federal installation whether recreational or medicinal. The public is not authorized to carry firearms while on the instillation.
Parking will be free. Handicap spots will be available.
Food, beverages and souvenirs will be available for purchase both days. Reserved seating is available for purchase from the 7th Force Support Squadron here. The cost for reserved seating includes special access to select concessions, beverage booths and VIP restrooms. The area is not shaded.
The following is a list of prohibited items: firearms or anything that resembles firearms, sharp objects, laser pointers, remote control aircraft or drones, flammable items, fireworks, non-service animals, spray paint, silly string, outside food, coolers, grills, glass containers or bottles, liquid without factory seal intact, walkie-talkies, radio scanners, alcohol, illegal drugs, bicycles, skateboards, scooters, heelies, and roller skates/blades.
Do not bring excessively large items or bags, with the exceptions of diaper bags, small purses and small camera bags at or below 21 inches long, 10 inches wide and 10 inches deep.
All guests are recommended to bring sunscreen, water bottles, hearing protection and strollers for children.
All information is subject to change. For any additional information visit the official Dyess AFB website here, or call 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs at (325) 696-4820. Look for additional airshow updates, photos and videos on the Dyess Facebook page here and the Dyess Instagram here.