CORAOPOLIS, Pa. – Bordering the Pittsburgh International Airport, the sound of plane engines roaring throughout the Moon Township area is nothing new, but for one weekend a year that roar become a celebration throughout the entire Pittsburgh community.

The U.S. Air Force’s 911th Airlift Wing hosted its yearly “Wings Over Pittsburgh” air show, which featured various aircraft, including those from the different military branches. In addition to the air show, military recruiting stations provided games, prizes and military equipment for visitors to see.

“It is important to get out and interact with the community like we are now because these kids out here will potentially be the future soldiers of this country so you have to have the good relationship with the local communities,” said Sgt. 1st Class Richard Cornish, Army National Guard Recruiting Battalion, headquartered at Robert Morris University in Moon Township, Pa.

Created in 2000 as an open house to emphasize the importance of the base and local military personnel, the free-to-the-public event has been held annually, with the exception of 2008.

Throughout the day, the crowds watched many of the aircraft in action in the skies above the station. Many of the planes performed stunts and areal displays which brought smiles to many of the spectators.

“We come every year and my kids look forward to it as much as I do,” said Mark Lilly of Clarksburg, W.Va. “It’s always exciting to see the different planes as well as talk to the [service members] who fly them.”

The event was also part of remembering the 10-year anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Throughout the crowd there were t-shirts displaying patriotic messages and American Flags.

“This weekend is for America, where we all come out and remember the events of 9/11,” said Marine Master Sgt. Jeffrey Shaffer, Marine Recruiting Station Pittsburgh and Akron, Ohio native. “It is also good for the community to see all the branches of the military come together as one team and for them to know that we are still out there doing our job.”

While the event was designed for the local community to appreciate the military and the instruments of war they use, for service members it was also a time to reflect on why they wear the uniform.

“Seeing all these people coming out here to support us really puts everything in perspective,” said Cornish. “It gives me pride to put on this uniform.”

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