All of us have a hierarchy of friends. Some are casual friends, friendships that exist almost exclusively in the workplace or church or club. Another subset of friends are those we socialize with. But the highest order of friendship is reserved for those we invite into our homes.
It’s accurate to say that Columbus Air Force Base has been a friend of our community since it arrived more than 80 years ago.
CAFB is a major economic driver in our community, but it goes beyond that. Base leadership and personnel have demonstrated their affection for the community in numerous ways. CAFB has made community relations a priority in ways large and small. Base personnel are active in local events and charities, giving back to the community with both their time and talents.
We’re friends and, as noted, one of the best ways to demonstrate the depth of that friendship is to invite us into their home.
It works a little differently with military installations.
For perfectly valid reasons, individual access to Columbus Air Force Base is limited and carefully regulated. Even in civilian homes, showing up at a friend’s house unannounced is bad manners, but that’s especially true on military bases.
But there are times when CAFB goes the extra mile to reinforce their affection for their community by inviting us – all of us – over to their place.
The next invitation comes in September. On Sept. 21-22, Columbus Air Force Base hosts its Thunder Over Columbus air show. The United States Air Force Thunderbirds are the headline performers, and the air show will include other acts such as the F-35 Lightning II Demonstration Team, C-17 Globemaster Demonstration Team and others. CAFB will also host a large-scale STEM Expo that features exhibitors from a variety of science,technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) pathways.
When a friend not only invites you over, but puts on a show for your benefit, it leaves a lasting impression.
That’s what these air shows do every time.
For the community, it is a wonderful opportunity to see CAFB up close and personal. These events draw big crowds, which speaks to the community’s interest in and support of the base.
Of all the things CAFB does to connect with the community, these shows stand apart. Those who attend leave the event with a renewed appreciation for “our” base and its mission.
We appreciate CAFB for making these opportunities available to us, not only because they are great entertainment but because they strengthen the bonds of friendship between the base and our community.
CAFB is a gracious host, a wonderful entertainer and, above all else, an old and treasured friend.
Sept. 21-22 can’t come soon enough!
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 37 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
