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Augmentees, volunteers work to execute airshow

  • Published
  • By Airman Chad Gorecki
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

An estimated 110,000 visitors attended the 2017 Centennial Airshow and Open House June 10-11, which showcased 13 high-flying performances and more than 50 ground displays each day.

With all of the extra attendance on base, Scott received help from thousands of volunteers and augmentees to help execute the airshow.

Workers were recruited from units all over Scott to support manning for the show, and along with aircrews who manned their stations by their various aircraft, augmentees supported the 375th Security Forces and Civil Engineer Squadrons, and the 375th Medical Group.

Approximately 350 active duty and civilian partners provided medical services that included breast feeding areas, cooling stations, roaming teams for basic care, an aid station along the flight line, and ambulances, in case further treatment was warranted.

“The local hospital regional system is integral to the care we provide every day,” said Maj. Bruce Auville, airshow medical director. “The airshow is just an extension of this long-standing partnership.”

The 375th Security Forces Squadron received help from approximately 140 augmentees each day to assist with guiding traffic, performing security checks and making sure the base and its visitors were safe.

The 375th CES Fire Department received support from approximately 60 personnel from local mutual aid partners including the Mascoutah, O’Fallon, East Side, Freeburg and Lebanon Fire Departments as well as the St. Clair Emergency Services and the 376th and 661st Engineering Companies of the Army National Guard. The personnel were on location, dispersed throughout the base to provide support when and where they were needed.

Scott also received help from more than 1,000 volunteers over the weekend.

In addition to setting up various displays and concession tents, volunteers directed traffic, distributed concessions and assisted visitors any way they were needed. Feeding the performers and volunteers came with the assistance from the Home Builders Association and USO.

“Our focus is serving those who serve us,” said Tracy Butler, HBA executive officer.

One volunteer reflected on how rewarding the experience was.

“Volunteering for the airshow was a great opportunity to gain leadership experience, since I put together the volunteers for the CPTS booster club, and worked as the manager for our booth,” said Airman 1st Class Damonigue English, 375th Comptroller Squadron. “I feel like working the booth built some camaraderie between the Airmen in our squadron who volunteered as well as making connections with the other squadron, the 906th Air Refueling Squadron, who we shared a booth with.

“The fact that it was my first airshow seeing the Thunderbirds perform made the experience that much greater.”