Keesler gears up for Thunder on the Bay Published April 2, 2009 By Susan Griggs 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, BILOXI, MISS. -- Eyes to the skies -- the rumble for Keesler's Thunder on the Bay Air Show begins today. Months of planning and preparation by Team Keesler kick into high gear today, as the Air Force Thunderbirds arrive about 1 p.m. for two days of pre-show practice, media interviews, school visits and other activities preceding the event, Saturday and Sunday Ploesti Drive from the child development center to the north entrance of Bay Ridge housing area, including the marina and Bay Breeze Golf Course, is closed from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. today through Sunday is air show conclusion, according to Maj. Miki Gilloon, Keesler's public affairs coordinator for the show. "Base personnel aren't permitted to watch practices or the air show from Bay Breeze or the marina during the show box closure times," she said. Biloxi's Back Bay is closed during the same hours, according to Federal Aviation Administration regulations during practice times and air show performances. The Army Golden Knights jump into their visit Friday with an appearance on an early morning television program, followed by media interviews and flights during the day. Midday interviews with other air show performers are on Friday's agenda. Eight Keesler Airmen will reenlist in a ceremony with the Thunderbirds, followed by a Thunderbirds practice show about 2 p.m. WLOX-TV broadcasts its 4, 5 and 6 p.m. live weather reports from the flight line Friday. "Even with all of the excitement and entertainment, this is still a military installation," Maj. Miki Gilloon, public affairs coordinator for the event, pointed out. "We want spectators to have a wonderful time, and we're doing all we can to ensure their safety." "To maintain security, all bags will be inspected as spectators enter through airfield security points, and all individuals are subject to search," said Justin Cooper, Keesler's air show director. Only people with Department of Defense identification cards can drive onto the base through the White Avenue Gate and the Pass Road Gate. Pedestrian traffic isn't allowed at these gates, but walkers can access the base through the Oak Park Gate behind Keesler Medical Center and the Meadows Drive Gate off Forrest Avenue. Residents of Thrower Park, West Falcon Park and Bay Ridge housing areas are encouraged to ride buses labeled "base housing shuttle" that will run regularly both days. Handicapped visitors with official state license plates or placards are allowed to park on base by entering the Judge Sekul Avenue Gate, where uniformed personnel will guide them to special parking areas in front of Bryan Hall.