Photo By Staff Sgt. Felix Mena | Spectators get an up close view of a Bradley Fighting Vehicle and Abrams Main Battle...... read more read more
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FORT BLISS, Texas – Fort Bliss in partnership with the Amigo Airsho, Inc. hosted the Amigo Airsho at Biggs Army Airfield for the first time in 12 years.
The Airsho, which was a beloved event in the community for years, drew a crowd of about 50,000 for the return of the two-day aerial extravaganza.
“This is a phenomenal event that we are proud to bring back to the El Paso community. We view the 2024 Amigo Airsho as the revival of an annual tradition,” said Maj. Gen. Curtis Taylor, commanding general of 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss. “The Amigo Airsho is an incredible opportunity to connect the community with their Army and we are looking forward to making many more memories together in the coming years.”
While the event boasted, an array of aerial demonstrations and static displays, the 1st Armored Division was a featured element of the event as they dominated the skies and ground. The "Iron" division showcased a variety of military equipment, including the M1 Abrams main battle tank, the M109A6 Paladin self-propelled artillery, and the Bradley fighting vehicle.
"Being able to participate with my squad and represent the 1st Armored Division at the Amigo Airsho was truly a unique experience," said 1st Lt. Andrew Stokes, a fire direction officer assigned to 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery, 1st Armored Division Artillery. "Naturally, we enjoyed the spectacle of the air show, but being able to show off our M109A6 Paladin to the visitors was fun and rewarding. It's not often that people get to see the inner workings of a heavy artillery piece like the Paladin!"
In addition to the static displays, the 1st Armored Division's 1st Battalion, 501st Combat Aviation Battalion, Combat Aviation Brigade put on a thrilling aerial demonstration featuring the CH-47 Chinook, UH-60 Blackhawk, and AH-64 Apache helicopters. The battalion's pilots skillfully maneuvered their aircraft, showcasing the division's combat capabilities and leaving the crowd in awe.
“We had a great time putting on a show for the people of El Paso, the crowd was huge,” said Sgt. Steven Hall, a crew chief assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 501st Combat Aviation Battalion. “My favorite thing about participating in the air show is that we had an opportunity to meet some of the other aerial performers like Kirby Chambliss from the Red Bull Air Force.”
Other incredible displays included the U.S. Army Black Knights Parachute Team who thrilled the crowd with their daring jumps, while the twin jet engine jet truck known as Hot Streak II provided a heart-pounding display of speed and power. History buffs were delighted by the appearance of a B-25 Mitchell Bomber and a C-47 Skytrain from the Commemorative Air Force, offering a glimpse into the past. Additionally, the Canadian Air Force Snowbirds captivated the audience with their breathtaking aerial acrobatics in their Canadair CT-114 Jets.
The 1st Armored Division's participation in the Amigo Airsho was a testament to its military prowess and dedication to showcasing their capabilities to the Fort Bliss and El Paso community.
| Date Taken: | 10.13.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 10.21.2024 08:59 |
| Story ID: | 483334 |
| Location: | EL PASO, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 50 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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