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Shaw Air and Space Expo returns this spring [MICAH GREEN / THE SUMTER ITEM]
Episode 3196 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the Shaw Air and Space Expo. The featured story is titled: Shaw Air and Space Expo returns this spring. It appeared on the Sumpter Item website and was submitted by Kayla Green.
Green reported that the Shaw Air and Space Expo is set to return to Shaw Air Force Base on March 28–29, marking the end of another long wait for one of the region’s largest public events. After a pandemic stretched the previous gap to six years, organizers are encouraging the community to start the countdown now for a weekend packed with aerial excitement, military heritage, and meaningful tributes.
This year’s show will feature headline performances by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the U.S. Army Golden Knights, along with demonstrations from the F-16 Viper Demonstration Team and a Heritage Flight. Attendees can also expect a dramatic joint airpower mission demo that includes pyrotechnics, rocket trucks, aerobatic flying, and a wide array of static aircraft displays and ground demonstrations. Portions of the show will highlight 60 years of the Wild Weasel mission and tie into celebrations of the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday.
A central and especially significant focus of the weekend will be the recognition of Vietnam War veterans. In observance of National Vietnam War Veterans Day, a special ceremony will be held on Sunday, March 29, honoring South Carolina–based Vietnam veterans and Purple Heart recipients as invited guests. This tribute underscores the base’s commitment to remembering and honoring those who served during the Vietnam War and recognizing their sacrifices in front of a large public audience.
The expo runs from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. both days, with gates opening at 9 a.m. Organizers anticipate crowds similar to 2022’s 80,000 attendees, and guests are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, and spend the day along the flight line enjoying food, merchandise, and nonstop action.
Listen to Episode 3196 and discover more about the Shaw Air and Space Expo.
