Since the time of the American Revolution, this country has had a military comprised almost entirely of citizen volunteers. Until the First World War almost all of our wars were fought close to home, which helped the military retain high visibility and rapport with the civilian population. This gave the people the sense, and in many cases literally, that they were personally being protected. Frequently it was a father, brother or son fighting a hundred miles or less from home. The military were heroes, the good guys who were lauded in songs and novels.

Now our wars are fought in faraway lands. It is still an all-volunteer military made up of our friends, family and neighbors, but it is easy to lose touch when what is going on feels like it doesn't really affect you, and what you hear is often second or third hand. Much of what many people know about the military they learn from television and movies -- oftentimes these do not tell the whole story.

In a time when there is political turmoil and war, particularly considering that the shadow of Vietnam hasn't completely dissipated, as a service member I am deeply proud of the way Americans have supported the military since 9/11. Everywhere I look, I see We Support Our Troops bumper stickers. I can't tell you how many times people have walked up to me while I was in uniform and said, ``Thank you.''

For these reasons, Homestead Air Reserve Base would like to invite the public, our neighbors, to a free air show Nov. 7-8 as a way to give thanks and foster awareness and confidence for local military units. This will be the first air show hosted by the Air Force at Homestead Air Reserve Base since being rebuilt after Hurricane Andrew struck in 1992.

Events such as air shows and open houses are very important. Not only do they give the residents a chance to reconnect with their military neighbors, but it gives the military a chance to say thank you for your support through times of war. This is our chance to show you what we do every day and to let you see us in our environment. This is your opportunity to sit in an Army Humvee and walk through the belly of an Air Force plane. This is your chance to talk to a service member as a member of your community.

Another great reason to come out to the ``Wings Over Homestead'' Air Show is just to have a great family day. We all love loud, fast, ``cool'' things. Where else can you see state-of-the-art fighter planes, precision skydiving, World War II aircraft and sky-writing all in one place? After 28 years of service and attending numerous air shows, I still get excited every time I see the Thunderbirds streak by overhead in their red, white and blue F-16s.

It's not often these days that you get to do something out of the ordinary with your whole family. Our vision for Homestead Air Reserve Base is to be one of the most recognized air shows in the country. This is an opportunity for our military and civilian community to spend two fun-filled days together. Admission to the air show is free.

For more information visit www.wingsoverhomestead.com.

Air Force Brig. Gen. William ``Blaze'' Binger is commander of the 482nd Fighter Wing based at Homestead Air Reserve Base.

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