Throughout the event, attendees were able to visit several hangars throughout the museum’s grounds, which houses a collection of 85 historic aircraft spanning over 50 acres. Participants were able to explore the various aircraft and eras in which they served, sit in open cockpits, and engage with pilots and crew members who shared their personal experience and affinity for aviation.

“It is only with the incredible partnership that we have with Robins AFB that we are able to have an event such as this,” said Dan Rhoades, president & CEO of the Museum of Aviation Foundation.

Several aircraft got a jump start on the festivities with their arrival the previous day from neighboring installations, such as a HH-60W 'Jolly Green' Combat Rescue Helicopter from the 41st Rescue Squadron, Moody AFB, Georgia, a TH-IH 'Huey' helicopter from the 23rd Flying Training Squadron, Fort Novosel, Alabama, and a U.S. Navy TH-73A ‘Thrasher’ helicopter from Naval Air Station Whiting Field, Florida.

“Ensuring the safety of aircrews and guests is our top priority, especially when coordinating aircraft movements within Robins airspace,” said Karen Ross, Museum of Aviation services director. “Preparing involves meticulous planning and naturally aligns with our commitment to mission readiness.”

Members from the 78th Security Forces Squadron were on hand to provide a public overview of Military Working Dog tactics, obedience, agility and tactical procedures. Onlookers watched as MWD Pinto demonstrated a series of six controlled aggression postures to take down and subdue Staff Sgt. Steven Malone, 78^th SFS MWD handler though various scenarios, under the supervision of 78^th SFS MWD handler Staff Sgt. Christian Foote.

The event also featured interactive STEM activities, including flight simulators, which offers a unique glimpse into the history of aviation and the vital role Robins AFB plays in national defense, while inspiring and educating attendees of all ages.

Adding to the patriotic atmosphere, students from David Perdue Primary School and Northside Elementary led the crowd in a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem. At the conclusion, a perfectly timed flyover was conducted out of Robins AFB by a C-130, flown by the 339th Flight Test Squadron, over the outdoor amphitheater.

“Today, we’ve been witness to air power. We’ve witnessed what we bring and how we support our country and the mission from right here at Warner Robins,” said Col. Deedrick Reese, Robins Installation and 78th Air Base Wing commander.

Reese went on to stress the importance of nurturing the awe and wonder of future generations in order for them to take up the mantle for future Air Force endeavors and missions.

“How many of you want to fly for the Air Force?” Reese asked of the younger attendees.

The roar of young voices echoed though the museum’s grounds a resounding ‘yes’.

“I am so excited to see so many happy, little faces, ready to learn about aviation,” said Warner Robins Mayor LaRhonda Patrick to an assembly gathering in the outside amphitheater. “We believe that if somebody has a dream; we can give it wings and let it take flight.”

The official festivities ended with an additional flyover from the 18^th Airborne Command and Control Squadron E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node, or BACN, aircraft, out of Robins AFB, as a final reminder of the importance of community engagement and the enduring fascination with the power and potential of aviation.

“The collaboration between the Museum and Robins exemplifies our mutual commitment to preserving aviation history, promoting STEM, education and inspiring future generations,” said Ross.