Home / Media / News / 2017 / Open Days at NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen deemed a Big Success
Open Days at NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen deemed a Big Success
GEILENKIRCHEN, Germany - The NATO Air Base has celebrated 35 years of NATO AWACS presence in Geilenkirchen with an Open Days event.
Over 37,000 guests passed through the air base from July 1 –
2, 2017 to mark this special occasion. The Open Days event provided the public
with a unique opportunity to see first-hand what happens on the base and at the
same time receive insight into the E-3A Component’s history, aircraft and daily
operations.
"The Open Days were a big success. We took the chance to
show the people what NATO stands for and especially the E-3A Component. The
amount of visitors underlines the support we get from the outside world,” said Lieutenant
Colonel Raimund Schulz, Chairman of the 35th Anniversary Committee.
The 35th Anniversary aircraft was the highlight
of the celebrations with over 60 aircraft on display.
Two other events were also held on the base. On June 29, guests were able to witness the Großer Zapfenstreich (Grand Tattoo), which is performed by pipes and drums as well as a military band, accompanied by two platoons under arms and torchbearers. The Zapfenstreich is normally performed only during national
celebrations to honour distinguished personnel. Members of the public were also invited to a Fliegerparty on June 30. Over 5,000 people attended that event in Hangar 2, where an AWACS is normally serviced.
Story by NATO E-3A Component Public Affairs Office