2010 Bethpage Federal Credit Union New York Air Show
In 2008 the Blue Angels drew a record crowd to Jones Beach. This year, Saturday’s weather was mostly clouds and fog resulting in most fans holding off for the perfect air show weather predicted for the next day. Sunday’s combination of a beautiful day, a holiday weekend and return of the Blue Angels made the “Perfect Storm” for breaking that previous record. By 10:45 am the parking areas had reached full capacity and officials were forced to close all access roads leading to the park! For those that arrived early and braved the elements of the humongous crowd, this 7th annual air show was well worth it.
Consisting mostly of civilian acts with three exceptional military tactical demonstrations scattered amongst them, the show opened with the Red Bull Air Force Jumpers while Sean D. Tucker and Ed “Hamster” Hamill circling about them. “Oh Canada” and “The Star-Spangled Banner” played as the US Army Golden Knights Gold Team brought to earth the flags of both Canada and the United States. The flying proceeded with acts by; Former F-16 Instructor Pilot Ed Hamill in his bi-plane, United States Aerobatic Team member and Melville Long Island resident David Windmiller in his Zivko Edge 540, World Aerobatic Champion Matt Chapman in his Embry-Riddle Eagle 580, U.S. National Aerobatic Champion Kirby Chambliss in his Red Bull Racer, Former C-130 and F-16 pilot John Klatt in his Staudacher S-300D, and 60-year-old Chuck Aaron in his tricked out BO-105 helicopter.
Single ship military demos were carried out by the Canadian CF-18 and East Coast A-10 teams. The CF-18 sported a stunning paint scheme in celebration of the Canadian Navy 100th anniversary. (For a complete description of this awesome art work, go to: http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/v2/cf18/page-eng.asp?id=912). Jones Beach was the air show debut for CF-18 demo pilot Captain Brian "Boozer" Bews. His unique act included maneuvers different from what we are used to seeing by U.S. Navy demos. The A-10 demo was flown by Major Johnnie "Dusty" Green, thrilling the multitude as he brought the big “Wart Hog” close to the beach with steep dives and tight maneuvers. Local participants included the American Air Power Museum’s “War Birds over Long Island” and from Gabreski Field, the 106th RQS of “The Perfect Storm” fame. Most of last year’s Sunday show was fogged out, and the War Birds did not have an opportunity to fly. It was nice to see them back in the air! The 106th RQS, show-casing one of their C-130 and an HS-60 aircraft, is always a favorite. Residents of Long Island have great respect and deep appreciation for the hard work and dedication of these folks, as they are on call saving lives 24/7, often in the harshest of conditions! Near the end of the show the patriotic Memorial Day audience cheered as retired Northwest Airlines Pilot Julie Clark concluded her performance with an open canopy slow flyby of the beach waving a large American flag from her gleaming T-34 Mentor.
Farmingdale, NY (Republic Airport) based GEICO Skytypers flew their T-6s through-out the day in formation, circling high overhead typing out messages that could be seen for miles. Later, the team returned to the beach to fly their impressive six-ship formation routine. Sean Tucker in his Oracle Bi-Plane flew just before the Blues took to the beach. The Blue Angels USMC KC-130 “Fat Albert” introduced the Blues to the crowd by coming in fast and low from behind the crowd. After completion of his performance, the six jets opened their show with a head-on from over the water. The Blues looked real good and executed an inspiring performance.
The Jones Beach Air Show is always held on Memorial Day weekend and alternates jet teams each year. It’s a great place to bring the family, your beach umbrella, stick your toes in the sand and go for a swim while you enjoy the show. There are plenty of vendors and family oriented fun activities on the boardwalk as well. 2010 set an all time attendance record for ANY event ever held at Jones Beach! An estimated 382,000 fans showed for the weekend. Bethpage Federal Credit Union has been the title sponsor for the show since the beginning. They have given nothing but positive feedback and have indicated their support for future shows. For more information about next year’s show: http://www.jonesbeachairshow.com/index.html
Story by Daniel O. Myers Photo Credits: Howard German
dan@domyers.com