Avalon Airshow Wows Crowd

  • Published
  • 13th Air Force Public Affairs
GEELONG, Australia --  Visitors got an up-close look at aircraft and military personnel when the Avalon 2011 Australian International Airshow opened its doors to the public here March 4-6, 2011.

Several U.S. Air Force personnel participated in the event, one of the largest airshows in the world, as well as aircraft used for static displays and aerial performances.

"Engagement with our allies, especially one as close as Australia, is key to our National Defense posture around the world," said Col. Seth Bretscher, 613th Air and Space Operations vice commander, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, and the Air Force mission commander for the air show. "This particular air show was visited by 'Air Chiefs' from over 25 allied nations across the Pacific theater. The commitment we show them is critical to building on the bilateral relationships we already have along with building a larger coalition structure across the Pacific. Attending Avalon shows that commitment - and it's a lot of fun too... "

The aircraft included the F-22 Raptor, the F-16 Fighting Falcon, the C-130J Hercules, the B-1B Lancer and the C-17 Globemaster III.

During the show, U.S. personnel got to work closely with their counterparts from the Royal Australian Air Force, which this year celebrated their 90th anniversary.

Participation in airshows and other regional events helps the U.S. to demonstrate its commitment to the security of the Asia-Pacific region. It also promotes the standardization and interoperability of equipment and displays capabilities critical to the success of current and future military operations.

"Australia and the U.S. have had an amazing relationship for many years. Since World War II, we have not missed working and fighting together is the bottom line," said Wing Commander Glen Braz, RAAF No. 1 Squadron commander.

The commander said the relationship between Australia and the U.S. is very important.

"We see that as fundamental to work together with great friends and great aviators and really work together to keep us on top of our game so we can continue to work and fight together in the future," he said.

Colonel Bretscher said the experience with the RAAF and others involved with the air show was nothing short of secular.

"I can't even begin to recount all the immediate needs that were address not only for the deployment in, but also as we work to deploy our aircraft, crews, personnel and equipment home," he said. "We will shake a lot of hands as we depart - I wish I could give them more as we depart Avalon."

As the show came to a close, Colonel Bretscher relayed his gratitude to his Australian hosts.

"The Melbourne and Geelong communities have been tremendous hosts - always accommodating, always friendly," he said. "They truly welcomed us to the area."