US Air Force,
WASHINGTON: In honor of the Air Force's 60th anniversary, official events are being held Sept. 18 in the nation's capital .
The day's events will begin with a wreath-laying ceremony scheduled for 9 a.m. at the Air Force Memorial. Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne, Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. T. Michael Moseley and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley will give remarks.
Additionally, a 60th birthday celebration is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. in the Pentagon Center Courtyard. Tops in Blue will perform, as well as the Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team and “Five Star Iris,” a band sponsored by Armed Forces Entertainment.
Secretary of Defense Robert Gates will give remarks at the celebration along with Secretary Wynne and General Moseley. Invited guests include members of the Tuskegee Airmen and Women Air Force Service Pilots, Vietnam veterans, Berlin Airlifters, Medal of Honor recipients, family members of the first Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. Carl A. Spaatz, and Air Force astronauts.
“The events here in the national capital region not only give us a chance to reflect on our remarkable Air Force heritage, but also give us the opportunity to celebrate our 60th Birthday as an independent service,” said Brig. Gen. Janet A. Therianos, director of the Air Force 60th anniversary task force. “Both our memorial service and Pentagon courtyard celebration capture the spirit of the past and the enthusiasm for the future, and bestow honors to the sacrifices of all who have given so much for our country. Whether they were the incredibly courageous pioneers who founded our Air Force, or are the equally courageous Airmen serving around the globe today, we recognize those Americans who volunteer to selflessly serve our great country.”
