Family fun planned for June 25

  • Published
  • By Sarah Olaciregui
  • 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  Hanscom is gearing up for a fun-filled, family-friendly afternoon on June 25 as Heroes' Homecoming, followed by Summer Bash, takes place in Memorial Park located behind the Hanscom Clinic.

Beginning at 2:30 p.m., the base community welcomes back Airmen who have recently returned home from deployments. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets as seating is limited. In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will move to the Aero Club hangar.

The pep rally style ceremony will begin as Amy-Jayne McCabe sings the national anthem. It will include an appearance by former Red Sox players, Bob "Monty" Montgomery, who also spent 14 seasons as the color commentator for Red Sox telecasts on WSBK-TV. In addition, those in attendance will enjoy local radio personality Michael Graham from WTKK as he serves as the master of ceremonies.

Immediately following the Heroes Homecoming ceremony, the 66th Force Support Squadron will kick off with Summer Bash. The entire family will enjoy high energy music by disc jockey Bob Caldeira.

Other entertainment includes a performance by Lansdowne, a Boston-based rock and alternative pop band. Lansdowne has traveled throughout the world with Armed Forces Entertainment to perform for deployed troops.

Children will be sure to enjoy the free carnival rides and games. Games and rides include "Tubs of Fun," kiddie race cars, kiddie ferris wheel, "Sky Fighter Jets," "Aztec Ride," a merry-go-round, 55-foot extreme obstacle course, inflatable boxing ring, batting arena and football game trailer, face painting, tattoos, dunk tank, water balloon toss, three-legged race, balloon bust relay, miniature golf, high-striker, basketball and jail and bail.

Those in attendance may try to scale a rock-climbing wall or experience a gyro-orbitron. Additionally, a number of vendors will be on hand offering deals on jewelry items, glow sticks, ethnic art, baskets confections, beauty products and more. There will also be a large safety exhibit and participation from an airplane radio club.

Food will be in large supply as burgers, hotdogs, nachos, sausages, ice cream, slushes, cotton candy, fried dough, soft pretzels, shaved ice, root beer floats, wontons and fried rice, fruit cups, watermelon slices, ribs, chicken, pulled pork, brisket, smoothies, chili, kettle corn and wraps will be available for purchase.

The event concludes with a performance by the Band of Liberty's rock group, Afterburner, at 8 p.m. This six member group will bring a blend of classic rock, pop and rhythm and blues to their show. Songs will include high energy tunes such as "Hit me with Your Best Shot" or "Wild Night." The band's performance will be followed by a fireworks display at 9 p.m.

For additional information about the Heroes Homecoming event contact Sarah Olaciregui in the 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs Office at (781) 377-4467. Any military or civilian personnel who have returned from deployment since December 2009 and have not received their electronic invitation are asked to contact J.C. Corcoran at (781) 377-6851 or e-mail james.corcoran@hanscom.af.mil.

Anyone wishing to volunteer for Summer Bash should contact Judith Trabucco at (781) 377-3346. For additional information about Summer Bash contact Russell Jackson at (781) 377-8643 or go online to www.hanscomservices.com.