HILL AIR FORCE BASE -- "A Legacy of Valor" is the sub-theme of the 2012 Hill Air Force Base Open House and Air Show to honor the sacrifices of those who serve, past and present.
"It's a logical extension from our Airman's Creed that affirms we are 'faithful to a proud heritage, a tradition of honor, and a legacy of valor,' and we are planning activities to recognize that valor," said Lt. Col. Juris Jansons, 75th Operations Support Squadron commander and the 2012 air show event coordinator.
"Warriors Over the Wasatch: A Legacy of Valor," will be May 26-27, Memorial Day weekend. The two-day event is free to the public.
"But we would be remiss if we only recognized our military members and veterans," Jansons said. "There are several members in our community who put their lives on the line every day in the name of service and sacrifice, and so we are taking steps to recognize some of our community members who wear the uniform in the name of service as well."
This year's air show is to feature the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and aerial performers such as Tim Weber, Dan Buchman, the Red Eagles, the Red Bull Team, Erickson Air and Smoke and Thunder.
"This is a tremendous opportunity to show the communities we serve what their Air Force is all about, and we encourage the public to see firsthand the training and professionalism of our airmen," Jansons said.
In an effort to bring some continuity to this year's open house and air show -- and to those open houses and air shows that will undoubtedly be held in the future -- officials are branding the event with the theme "Warriors Over the Wasatch," said Rich Essary, base spokesman.
"We want the 'Warriors Over the Wasatch' trademark to become a household name in Utah, as well as the aviation community across the country who participate in these events," said Kevin Ireland, Ogden/Weber Chamber of Commerce development director and Top of Utah Military Affairs Committee air show coordinator.
Many military open houses and air shows around the country are well-attended because they have a name the public is familiar with, Ireland said.
"Instead of creating a new name each year, 'Warriors Over the Wasatch' gives a name that everyone can come to know," he said.
"I don't think anybody can deny the heritage of service of Hill Air Force Base (personnel)," Davis County Commissioner John Petroff Jr. said.
"There is always someone (from the base) deployed, and always someone in harm's way," Petroff said, adding that he can't think of a better definition for patriotism.
Event and sponsorship information can be found at www.theutahairshow.com.
Information from the base about the event can be found at www.hill.af.mil/warriorsoverthewasatch.
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