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ASC supports Pride of the Nation event

  • Published
  • By Aeronautical Systems Center Public Affairs
Aeronautical Systems Center always tries to be a good neighbor, whether that’s in the Miami Valley or in locations like Palmdale, Calif.

Such was the case recently as ASC, located here, strengthened its ties with the Antelope Valley community. ASC’s Detachment 1 at Air Force Plant 42, just outside of Palmdale, provided the backdrop for the area’s third annual "Pride of the Nation" event on Saturday, May 20, and opened the gates so the community could attend.

American History students from nearby Lancaster High School came up with this year's theme, "Pride of the Nation: Through the Eyes of Our Heroes.” They planned the occasion with guidance from their teacher, Ms. Jamie Goodreau. Their goals were to honor and recognize U.S. Armed Forces, past and present; increase awareness of the responsibilities and contributions of the military; and raise funds for charities that support the military, their families and veterans.

The event, which coincided with Armed Forces Day, was held in the Plant's historic hangar, built in 1944 and once home to the P-59 Airacomet, the country's first jet-propelled aircraft. Nearly 570 guests attended including veterans from all branches of the services from WWII to the present.

The evening's festivities included a dinner; dancing to Big Band Swing tunes of the 20-piece "Antelope Valley Jazz Ensemble;" student displays; and contemporary and vintage military aircraft static displays including a T-6 Texan, T-5 Jet Provost, P/F-80, B-25 “Mitchell” Bomber, U-2, Global Hawk, F-117 Nighthawk, F-18 Hornet, T-38 Talon, and a UH-60 Black Hawk.

Army Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Liles, one of the military attendee’s who served in Baghdad, Iraq told the audience, "I commend you students for doing something for the troops. Trust me; the Iraqi people are looking for democracy and a better life. And U.S. forces are doing what they should be doing, representing democracy. But you families are truly heroes."

Detachment 1 Commander, Lt Col Ronald Ortiz, said it was a great experience for all who attended, especially for first time guests, who numbered about a third of the crowd. He also mentioned a remark by one of the guests, who said this kind of ceremony should be conducted “at least once in every state of this nation and provide all veterans with recognition for their services to our country. “