GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, North Dakota -- The Grand Forks Air Force Base airshow scheduled for August 1-2, 2020 is cancelled due to growing COVID-19 concerns and to mitigate health risks to attendees.
“Our priority during this health crisis has always been to protect our Airmen, their families and community neighbors,” said Col. Cameron Pringle, 319th Reconnaissance Wing commander. “We also have a duty to focus on preserving our combat capabilities to safeguard U.S. national interests alongside those of our allies and partners. By fighting the virus, we are able to continue applying pressure where needed to defend America 24/7. ”
The show would have featured the Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration team for the first time since 2010.
The airshow committee, along with public health specialists examined every angle in order to ensure an event of such magnitude would not cause further transmission to the base and local community. “The complexity of the situation won out,” said Lt. Col. Devon Fitts, airshow director. “Although we are disappointed that we cannot give our friends and neighbors the ‘thank you’ they deserve this year, we are looking toward the future and have submitted the paperwork to request an airshow in 2022.”
Airshow organizers are grateful to the local Grand Forks community for their continued support and understanding throughout the challenging decision making process.
For more information visit www.grandforks.af.mil or follow Grand Forks Air Force base on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For questions, please contact the 319th RW Public Affairs office at (701) 741-5023 or email 319rw.pa@us.af.mil.