C-5 draws big crowds at Berlin Air Show

  • Published
  • By Capt. Darrick Lee
  • U.S. European Command Public Affairs
BERLIN, Germany --  A U.S. Air Force C-5 Galaxy aircraft gathered lots of attention this week during the 2008 Berlin Air Show here May 27 through June 1.

The show offers aviation enthusiasts, industry insiders and military leaders the chance to see aircraft from around the world. The U.S. has been participating in the show since 1909, when an aircraft built by the Wright Brothers' was the main attraction. Almost 100 years later, the basic intent of the show, demonstrating U.S. aviation capabilities, remains intact.

Today's displays are more modern, with bombers, fighters, and refueling aircraft representing the U.S. at this year's show. For attendees, simply seeing the aircraft flying is a thrill. Photographers, both amateur and professional, love to hone their skills using the planes as subjects. For many youngsters, air shows are often a child's first introduction to aviation. There certainly is a lot to see at Berlin this year.

But out of the thousands who visited the U.S. corral, a lucky few were able to do more than just see the aircraft; they were invited to come aboard. Most aircraft exhibitors park their aircraft in a closed corral, only allowing attendees to admire the planes from a distance. This year, the U.S. aircrews provided personal tours of their B-1s, F-15s (both C and E models,) F-16C, KC-135R, C-17, C-130J. As crowds lined up to visit the various aircraft, it became clear that one of the biggest draws was the massive C-5 Galaxy from the 433rd Airlift Wing.

The size of the C-5 might be the main reason so many people are drawn to it during the show. While the bombers and fighters offer an impressive display of power, sometimes security and safety concerns can limit access inside. The C-5's huge cargo area allows for ease of public access, satisfying the attendee's curiosity. When its nose (or visor) is lifted high in the air and rear cargo door is lowered, spectators can view the entire interior of the plane.

Huge crowds waited at the entry point of the U.S. corral at the Berlin Air Show, hoping to be invited to tour the historic aircraft. The C-5 aircrew ushered in as many people as they could, teaching them about its inner workings. Given the huge size of the crowds, topping 100,000 people, offering personal tours wasn't easy. Managing the crowds, providing the tours, and maintaining the integrity and safety of the aircraft can be a tough task.

U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant Steven Martinez, with the 68th Airlift Squadron from Lackland Air Force Base, Tex., is a Flight Engineer with the C-5 at the Berlin show. He knows a thing or two about tackling tough tasks. Aside from his duties as an Air Reserve Technician, Martinez serves as a volunteer firefighter and a city councilman in the city of Poth, Tex. His multiple roles can be demanding, but he sees a relationship between his civilian jobs and his duties with as a C-5 Flight Engineer.

"Here at the Berlin Air Show, we're all serving as ambassadors for the country. We represent the U.S. and serve its citizens," said Martinez. "Back home, I represent the citizens in the council, and serve them as a member of the fire department."

As visitors tour the C-5, Martinez politely answered the usual questions.

"They always ask me if it really flies," said Martinez. "They have a hard time understanding how something so big can go in the air."

Looks aside, the C-5 is known for its ability to deliver the goods in various situations. It can carry 265,000 pounds of cargo such as military equipment, humanitarian relief supplies, personnel or any combination of things.

U.S. Air Force Captain Chris Melton, the C-5 commander at the show, believes the presence of the aircraft at Berlin sends a subtle message to air show attendees.

"I hope when people see the C-5, they are reminded of our history," said Melton. "The C-5 has been around for decades, bringing in the materials needed to help keep people alive [during disaster relief and humanitarian missions.] Historically, the C-5 has shown the world that we are powerful and capable, yet compassionate."

With so much to see at Berlin this year, it is uncertain exactly what attendees will remember most about their visit to the air show. But if the reaction of Berliners is any indication, their visit to the C-5 can be summed up in one German phrase: "Grosser vogel!" (In english: That is one big bird!")