RAF Feltwell Fourth of July celebration opens gates to the public

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kristopher Levaseur
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  The aromatic smell of barbeque and fried foods drifted all over RAF Feltwell, and the screams of people riding fast-moving carnival rides could be heard for miles as people gathered to celebrate the Fourth of July. 

More than 30,000 people from the 48th Fighter Wing, 100th Air Refueling Wing and communities all over the U.K. gathered together at RAF Feltwell to celebrate the 233rd birthday of the U.S. 

"These events are important to the community," said Christopher McIntire, 48th Force Support Squadron director. "It gives people time out of their very busy schedules to sit back, relax and enjoy times with their families." 

Event festivities included rides, food, games, a softball game and demonstrations. There were more than 20 private organizations on scene selling a variety of food items, delicacies and authentic squadron items. 

In addition to the festivities, participants were provided entertainment by the Air Force Tops in Blue, a traveling performance group hand selected to perform for bases and community events worldwide. 

"This year's Fourth of July celebration was exciting because it was the first time I have seen Tops in Blue perform live," said Senior Airman Clinton Rowland, 48th Communications Squadron ground radio technician. "They had a lot of enthusiasm and the crowd really seemed to enjoy their performance." 

According to Mr. McIntire, the success of the event can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. The event was co-hosted by the 48th and 100th FSSs however; many other organizations were involved in the planning and application of the festivities. 

"I really enjoyed being able to celebrate our Independence Day with our host nation," said Airman Rowland. "This is the third time I have been to the Fourth of July celebration on RAF Feltwell, and it seems to be getting bigger and better each year." 

The day's events concluded with a fireworks show. For about 20 minutes, sky rockets, sparklers and other fireworks lit up the sky. After the last firework exploded, a cloud of smoke drifted across the field as participants slowly made their way home.