Aviano Airmen participate in the Electronics Expo

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Nadine Y. Barclay
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  The 31st Fighter Wing participated in a three-day Electronics Expo to enhance partnerships between the men and women of Aviano Air Base and the local community April 29 to May 1 in Pordenone, Italy.

Airmen assigned to the 31st Communications Squadron, 31st Security Forces Squadron, 603rd Air Control Squadron and 8th Air Support Operations Squadron represented Team Aviano during the convention, demonstrating the uses of their communications equipment.

"It's important to participate in local events like this to let the public know that we can integrate with the community in a positive way," said Senior Airman Eric Gray, 8th ASOS terminal air control party member.

Members from the Italian armed forces Ariete Brigade, Carabinieri and Polizia also participated.

The event focused on developing positive communication between the two military cultures as well as the local community, by providing the opportunity to learn about current technologies that are used in both the military and civilian sectors.

"There is a lot of information regarding electronics, more specifically those dealing with communications that can be shared between our countries," said Airman Gray. "Many of the Italians who were very well versed in communications were very impressed with the communication capabilities of American Humvees, as well as other electronic equipment that we use on a day-to-day basis during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom."

This was the first time in 15 years that Aviano units participated.

"After many years, we are honored to have recovered a collaboration that allowed the general public to appreciate the technological and organizational qualities of the U.S. Air Force," said Alvaro Cardin, Pordenone Fairs president. "We wish to repeat this year's positive experience with new initiatives."

According to Airman Gray, the event helped put a face on Aviano AB that the Italian community could relate to instead of a "gated fence with barb wire."

"Many of the Italians were glad to have us there and very impressed with the displays," said Airman Gray. "I personally had an Italian family come up to me and have me hold their new born baby as they took a picture."

There were nearly 36,000 people from throughout the region and neighboring countries who attended the event.