As Freedom's Call Tattoo grows, so, too, does its technology exhibit

  • Published
  • By Sharon Erli
  • Air Force Materiel Command Public Affairs
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  For some people, their favorite part of Air Force Materiel Command's Freedom's Call Tattoo are the impressive aircraft. For others, it's great music. Still, others go for the dazzling fireworks.

And, then, there are people who like to see technology. Which is why, when they visit displays in the Freedom's Call Tattoo technology exhibit on June 26, patrons will get a chance for some hands-on interaction with airpower capabilities developed at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base for use throughout the Air Force.

"The technology exhibit gives attendees an opportunity to get an up-close-and personal look at and feel for a handful of technologies developed right here at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base," said Dave Egner, Freedom's Call Tattoo director.

The exhibit will be housed in the spectator area, with 12 exhibitors presenting their wares in a nearly 5,000 square-foot tent.

"This is more than just technologies displayed, this gives the community a chance to see what goes on behind the fence," Mr. Egner said.

While this will be the fifth year for Tattoo, which saw a record-breaking crowd 75,000 attendees last year, but it is only the second year the event has hosted the technology display.

"Because of the interest shown in the technology exhibit last year, we're planning on more displays and demonstrations to further highlight the important work done at the base by people who live in our local communities," said Jim Palmer, technology exhibit coordinator. "We'll have a range of displays and demonstrations."

One of the newest additions this year is an F-35 pilot training aid, Mr. Palmer said. The hands-on laptop computer, complete with throttle and stick functions and goggles, allows student pilots to "fly" while looking at an accurate display of what is actually seen in cockpit. A large plasma screen above the computer allows onlookers to see what the "pilot" is seeing.

Additionally, there will be an astronaut suit from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, an F-16 cockpit simulator and a 14-foot trailer filled with interactive displays, courtesy of the Air Force Research Laboratory. Other base organizations that will have displays at the exhibit include the Aeronautical Systems Center, the Air Force Institute of Technology, the National Air and Space Intelligence Center, 445th Airlift Wing and 88th Air Base Wing.

Freedom's Call is free, and open to the public. Activities begin at 5 p.m. Gates will open at 4:30 p.m.

For more information, log onto www.wpafb.af.mil/tattoo Follow Tattoo updates on Twitter or MySpace: @AFMC_Now