2009 Air Show

Keesler’s Thunder on the Bay Air Show and Open House 2009 took place April 4-5. In excess of 142,000 people visited the two-day air show. Performers included the USAF Thunderbirds, US Army Golden Knights parachute team, USAF Academy Wings of Blue and many more. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kemberly Groue)

Keesler Air Show wins award; Next show announced for 2011

Published Dec. 8, 2009
By Keesler News Staff
81st Training Wing

Keesler Air Force Base, Miss. -- Keesler AFB's "Thunder on the Bay" air show has been named the "U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Best Military Show Site 2009". Lt. Col. Gregory Thomas, Thunderbird commander/leader, presented the award at the annual International Council of Air Shows in Las Vegas. Thunder on the Bay was held April 4 and 5 and drew an estimated crowd of 142,000 to the gulf coast.

Keesler's next air show will be March 19-20, 2011, showcased with a performance by the Navy Blue Angels. With this announcement, Keesler will begin efforts to execute planning for its second air show in just under two years.

"We are ecstatic to be hosting the Blue Angels in 2011," said Brig. Gen. Ian Dickinson, 81st Training Wing commander. "The selection by the Blue Angels to come to Keesler is a testament to the warm reception and great crowds that came from all around the Mississippi Gulf Coast for our Thunder on the Bay performance in April. We are honored to host another air show for the community."

The Blue Angels schedule can be viewed at http://www.blueangels.navy.mil/index.htm