AmericaFest preparations continue Published June 13, 2008 By Staff Sgt. Kenya Shiloh 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- The 18th Wing is continuing preparations for AmericaFest here, the first one held in four years. Highlights from the 2008 open house will include aircraft static displays, performances by rock group Eve 6, fireworks, a kiddie land, and a variety of food vendors. The event will be a blend of cultural exchange, music, food and fun with an opportunity for members of the military and local community to see various U.S. aircraft up-close and interact with flight crews. "This is an opportunity for the base to open its doors to our friends in the local community and give them an up-close view of our mission, our aircraft and our Airmen," said Col. Michael Hass, 18th Civil Engineer Group commander and AmericaFest director. "We also want to take this opportunity to put on a special event for all the men and women and their families who make the mission happen here every day." Aircraft static displays featured at this year's event include the F-15, HH-60, E-3, KC-135, MC-130H, MC-130P, F-16, A-10, AV-8B, SH-60B, AH-1W, CH-46E, CH-53E, C-130J, UH-1N, C-172 from the Aero Club, and a Patriot Missile Battery from the 1-1 Air Defense Artillery. AmericaFest is designed to promote friendship and foster mutual appreciation and understanding between the local community and Americans assigned to Kadena.