San Diego's Marine Corps Air Station Miramar 2018 Air Show
About the time summer fades into fall in Southern California absolutely nothing changes, we still have the same great weather and the palm trees don't change color. So while the rest of the nation marks the season change and cooler weather, San Diego hosts the largest military air show in the United States as the city kicks off Fleet Week.
Opening its gates to the public since 1953 this three day family event is now put on by the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar’s Marines and Sailors.
This years 2018 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Airshow honored 100 years of women in the Marine Corps. Since World War I, women have served in the Marine Corps contributing to the U.S. victory of multiple wars, battles and conflicts. This year’s airshow was a chance to recognize the accomplishments of women Marines in the past 100 years.
2 F-18's of the Black Knights of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 (VMFA-314)
This year the base welcomed back the U.S. Navy Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron and the Patriots Jet Team as well as an amazing line-up of civilian performers. Guests had the opportunity to enjoy exciting aerial performances by many Marine Corps aircraft to include the F-35B Lightning II, the AV-8B Harrier, and the MV-22 Osprey and the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) demonstration team.
Commanding General Kevin Iiama doing a little recruitment before the show
U.S. Navy Leap Frogs & U.S. Army Golden Knights
A highlight every year is the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Demo. The Marine Air-Ground Task Force Demonstration rare public display of the coordinated use of close air support, armor, artillery and infantry forces. Children look on as Hornets and Harriers provide cover for the 24 paratroopers as helicopters bring in platoons of riflemen. C-130’s provide aerial re-fueling overhead while M1 tanks and LAV’s support the ground offensive. You can feel the heat of the spectacular special effects simulate air-to-ground explosions.
The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, better known as the Blue Angels, has been the indisputable “star of the show” since the 1940s. Flying F/A-18 Hornets painted in Navy Blue and Gold since 1986, these masters of the sky have demonstrated aerial excellence in the Navy’s top piston and jet aircraft.
John A. Collver and his AT-6 “War Dog”
The Shockwave Jet Truck
And a special appearance from my favorite fandom, Star Wars came to the air show.
A pair of #USMC pilots ready to join the Resistance at the MCAS Miramar Air Show. Meet Captain Ballenger of HMH-466 & Captain Robbins of VMF-311 #StarWarsResistance #StarWars