JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Aircraft from U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard units in Alaska will honor frontline COVID-19 responders and essential workers with flights over several communities in the state on May 12, 13 and 15.
The flyovers, allowed as part of an approved training mission, are part of the Air Force Salutes initiative designed to show appreciation to the countless heroes around the world battling the pandemic, and to lift morale in communities across America.
“Healthcare professionals are the indispensable line of defense against COVID-19, and this is one way we can show our gratitude for what they are doing in hospitals and healthcare facilities across Alaska and the nation,” said Alaska Air National Guard commander, Brig. Gen. Scott Howard.
“We’re so grateful for everything citizens throughout Alaska have done these past few weeks,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Robert Davis, commander of the 3rd Wing. “Supporting both us and society at large, everyone from healthcare workers to first responders have helped make sure we stay healthy and safe. These flyovers are just a small gesture to show our appreciation for the sacrifice and support given by everyone in our communities. Thank you for everything you’ve done!”
U.S. Air Force Maj. Steve Ludwig, a pilot and aircraft commander with the 211th Rescue Squadron, added, “We are honored to do this for the frontline workers and the state of Alaska. We want people to know that we are ready to serve our communities when we are called upon.”
Aircraft involved include the F-22 Raptor, C-17 Globemaster III, KC-135 Stratotanker, HC-130J Combat King II, and HH-60 Pave Hawk. These flyovers are a collaborative salute to healthcare workers, first responders, and other essential personnel to showcase solidarity with all of Alaska during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Detailed flight routes and estimated flight times will be released on the day prior to each flyover on the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/JBERAK/. Day of, times may be as much as 30 minutes later than advertised depending on weather.
Flyover details:
May 12: In the early afternoon, flyovers will start with a HC-130J Combat King II in Bethel, Nome, and Kotzebue. A KC-135 Stratotanker will follow the same path 25 minutes later.
May 13: In the early afternoon, a HH-60G Pave Hawk and HC-130J Combat King II will conduct flyovers in Eagle River, Palmer, and Wasilla.
May 15: In the early afternoon, two C-17 Globemaster IIIs will conduct flyovers in Wasilla, Palmer, Valdez, Cordova, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka.
May 15: From late morning through early afternoon, four F-22 Raptors will conduct flyovers in Eagle River, Whittier, Seward, Homer, Soldotna, Kenai, Sterling, Girdwood, and Anchorage.
Detailed flight routes and estimated flight times will be released on the day prior to each flyover on the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/JBERAK/. Day of, times may be as much as 30 minutes later than advertised depending on weather.
More information:
Residents in these areas should be able to see the flyover from the safety of their home and should maintain all social distancing guidelines during these events. They should also refrain from gathering in large groups to view the flyover.
A video interview of 3rd Wing Commander, Col. Robert Davis, is available here for use in advertising efforts:
Further, Colonel Davis will be available for a video press conference via Zoom on Thursday, May 14 at 10 a.m. Media interested in virtually attending this must RSVP to jber.mediaops@gmail.com by May 14 at 8 a.m. in order to receive Zoom meeting information.
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