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Spangdahlem Opens its Doors

  • Published
  • By Airman First Class Jenifer Calhoun
  • 52 Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany --  Spangdahlem Airmen and their German neighbors came together July 26 by the thousands to enjoy the second Open House since Sept. 11, 2001. 

The Open House began with Col. Tip Wight, 52nd Fighter Wing commander, welcoming friends, partners, and community leaders and inviting them to enjoy the festivities, static displays and squadron demonstrations. 

"The weather is super, and with a much larger crowd than anticipated. Today's events are perfect opportunities to showcase the aircraft and equipment of the wing as well as the Saber mission to our friends and partners in the Eifel," said Colonel Wight. 

The commander and Minister Karl Peter Bruch, Minister of Interior and Sports and Deputy Minister President for Rheinland-Pfalz, commented on how the Open House is an ideal way to show how two democratic states create and defend freedom as well as how the two military forces work together for the security of Europe. 

The flightline was filled with 11 different aircraft and dozens of new and historical equipment displays, including some from our German and Luxembourg partners. For many in the local community, it was their first experience visiting the base. 

Mr. Bambach, who brought his family from Trier, commented on how much his children enjoyed the event and how interesting it was to come to the Open House for the first time. 

Yazmine Walker also brought her children and stated how fascinating it was to see some of the different aircraft usually not seen at the 52 FW. 

"They see the F-16 and see what daddy does at work, but they never get to see the larger cargo and transport planes," she said. 

In addition to the American aircraft featured, a German F-4 Phantom, Tornado, and the historical Fieseler Storch were also on display. 

The roar of the F-16 Fighting Falcon turned heads and plenty of 'oohs and ahhs' were heard as it began the first flyby of the day followed by the much quieter A-10 Thunderbolt. The cargo aircraft were also popular as children and 'children at heart' got a chance to climb inside and explore the C-5, C-130 and KC-135. 

Adding to the festivities were dozens of food booths and an entertainment tent providing music for visitors.
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