Air Show review: Air Commandos on the High Plains

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds perform an aerial demonstration during the Cannon Air Show, May 28, 2016, at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. The 2016 Cannon Air Show highlights the unique capabilities and qualities of Cannon’s Air commandos and also celebrates the long-standing relationship between the 27th Special Operations Wing and the High Plains community. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Manuel Martinez)

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Air Show review: Air Commandos on the High Plains

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds perform an aerial demonstration during the Cannon Air Show, May 28, 2016, at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. The 2016 Cannon Air Show highlights the unique capabilities and qualities of Cannon’s Air commandos and also celebrates the long-standing relationship between the 27th Special Operations Wing and the High Plains community. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Manuel Martinez)

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Air Show review: Air Commandos on the High Plains

Children prepare to watch the Thunderbird performance during the Cannon Air Show May 29, 2016, at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. The 2016 Cannon Air Show highlights the unique capabilities and qualities of Cannon’s Air commandos and also celebrates the long-standing relationship between the 27th Special Operations Wing and the High Plains community. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Chip Slack)

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Air Show review: Air Commandos on the High Plains

CV-22 Ospreys with the 20th Special Operations Squadron trail behind an MC-130J Commando II during the Air Commando Capabilities Demonstration at the Air Commandos on the High Plains air show May 28, 2016 at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. The 2016 Cannon Air Show highlights the unique capabilities and qualities of Cannon's Air Commandos and also celebrates the long-standing relationship between the 27th Special Operations Wing and the High Plains community. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Shelby Kay-Fantozzi)

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Air Show review: Air Commandos on the High Plains

The Shockwave Jet Truck speeds down the flight line taxi way during the Cannon Air Show May 28, 2016, at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. The 2016 Cannon Air Show highlights the unique capabilities and qualities of Cannon's Air Commandos and also celebrates the long-standing relationship between the 27th Special Operations Wing and the High Plains community. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Eboni Reams)

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Air Show review: Air Commandos on the High Plains

Members of the 27th Special Operations Security Forces Squadron return fire to hostiles during the Cannon Air Show capabilities exercise May 28, 2016, at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. The 2016 Cannon Air Show highlights the unique capabilities and qualities of Cannon’s Air commandos and also celebrates the long-standing relationship between the 27th Special Operations Wing and the High Plains community. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Manuel Martinez)

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Air Show review: Air Commandos on the High Plains

CV-22 Ospreys with the 20th Special Operations Squadron trail behind an MC-130J Commando II during the Air Commando Capabilities Demonstration at the 2016 Cannon Air Show May 28, 2016, at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. The 2016 Cannon Air Show highlights the unique capabilities and qualities of Cannon's Air Commandos and also celebrates the long-standing relationship between the 27th Special Operations Wing and the High Plains community. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Dennis Henry Jr.)

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Air Show review: Air Commandos on the High Plains

Published June 1, 2016
27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- After nearly half a year of preparation and coordination, the 27th Special Operations Wing opened its doors for the 2016 Cannon Air Force Base Air Show over Memorial Day weekend, May 28 and 29. Roughly 26,000 people travelled from local communities and surrounding states to witness impressive aerial demonstrations, enjoy static displays and marvel at unique performances.

Both days consisted of a full line-up that included demonstrations by the Wings of Blue Parachute Team, the USAFA Glider Team, the Shockwave Jet Truck, and a full mission capabilities display of 27th SOW aircraft, to include the first aerial display by an MQ-9 Remotely Piloted Aircraft in an airshow.

Throughout the day, spectators were able to tour the Cannon flightline to participate in games and purchase souvenirs, or visit static displays and learn about different aircraft capabilities.

Perhaps the highlight for most guests, concluding each day by taking in an aerial performance by none other than the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

"This year’s air show team worked diligently to develop a plan that showcased our superb Airmen and the missions they can perform," stated Col. Ben Maitre, 27th SOW commander. "This was first and foremost an opportunity for us to celebrate the long-standing partnership between Cannon Air Force Base and the High Plains community.”

“We were able to demonstrate the professionalism, and unique capabilities and qualities of Cannon’s Air Commandos,” he continued. “I hope this year’s airshow will continue to build a better understanding of the dedication and skill required to carry out our diverse missions, while further cementing the connection between military families and the communities in which they serve.”