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A heads up for the expo

U.S. Army photo by Master Sgt. Glenda S. Lynchard

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Ready to go to the 2016 JBLM Airshow & Warrior Expo Saturday, Aug. 27 and Sunday, Aug. 28?

The weather should be fine; the visitors' count for the event may approach 300,000; and the static displays and aerial demonstrations will amaze.

"After a four-year hiatus, we're pleased to bring this event back to the South Sound," commented Col. Daniel Morgan, Joint Base Lewis-McChord's garrison commander.

If the answer is yes, then here are some suggestions in order to make the day more enjoyable.

Time

The Expo begins at 9 a.m.; aerial demonstrations begin at 11 a.m. on both days.

Directions

Coming from the north on I-5, take exit 125.  Go left at the stoplight onto Bridgeport Way.  Stay on Bridgeport Way until you reach the McChord Field Gate.  Follow posted directions to parking.

Coming from the south on I-5, take exit 125.  Take a right on Bridgeport and proceed until you reach the McChord Field Gate.  Follow the posted directions to parking.

Parking

DoD ID cardholders and guests are to park on Lewis Main around the Madigan Army Medical Center and in the Logistics Center, and then board shuttle buses to McChord Field via express lanes into the event area.

For more information on parking, visit www.jblmawe.com.

Pierce Transit will pick up passengers at the Lakewood and Tacoma Dome Stations.  Fare is $2 per person.

For more information on bus travel, visit www.piercetransit.org.

Security

All visitors over the age of 16 must have a valid photo ID.  JBLM is a military installation with clear procedures.

Everyone will be searched and all hand-carried items will be inspected.

Do not bring any type of food or drink except water in unopened, clear plastic bottles.

Backpacks, camelbacks, duffle and tote bags, briefcases, large camera bags are prohibited.  On the other hand, medication, oxygen tanks, diaper bags and small camera bags are permissible.

Drones, tents, balloons, food, coolers, sports bottles, glass containers, drugs, large umbrellas and chairs are not allowed.

Small folding chairs are allowed but must be out of the bag and searched.

Pets are not allowed.  The only exception is for medical service dogs with harness and valid paperwork.

"We may have 150,000 people per day on the base," said Lt. Col. Louann de Leon, the expo's deputy director who is attached to the garrison commander's office.

"Security will be tight and maintained."

The Show

Dress for comfort and the weather.

There will be plenty of food and drink vendors.  

Be polite and use common sense.  Smoke in designated areas; do not climb on aircraft unless invited to; watch for uneven pavement and power cords; wear sunscreen and hydrate often if the weather is hot; stay within the fence line.

Enjoy the show and the men and women who serve.

Departure

Don't be in a hurry to leave.  

To make departing McChord Field easier, there will be carnival rides and food vendors available.

"While some people may decide to leave right away, others can enjoy something to eat or a carnival ride before leaving," said Col. Paul Greenlee, the show's director, 62nd Airlift Wing.

This should be one airshow to remember.

For more information, go back to our home page and click on the "2016 JBLM Airshow & Warrior Expo Program" button.

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