Marines coming to Hanscom, Boston

  • Published
  • By Sarah Olaciregui
  • 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  From April 30 through May 9, base personnel may notice some increased air traffic and noise as the U.S. Marine Corps station some of their aircraft and equipment on base as part of Marine Week Boston activities.

Specifically, on May 4 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., due to a media preview, and on May 8 from noon until 8 p.m., due to Family Day at Moakley Park, some aircraft may be taking off and landing from Hanscom, so extra noise is to be expected.

Although there will be no public activities on base, downtown Boston will host many exciting events, all of which are free and open to the public.

Marine Week Boston festivities will officially begin when Mayor Thomas M. Menino proclaims May 3 through 9, as "Marine Week Boston" during a dedication ceremony at Faneuil Hall on May 3 at 11 a.m. and will conclude May 9 with a rededication of the Marine Barracks at Charlestown Navy Yard, which this year celebrates its 200th anniversary.

Approximately 600 Marines will participate in a variety of community-based events and showcase various capabilities throughout the city. Throughout the week, Marines will work alongside Boston residents volunteering at food kitchens and community parks, sharing stories of service with local students, conducting musical performances at area landmarks and encouraging children to become active through physical fitness challenges.

Hundreds of service members from the New England area have deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Marine Week Boston will honor these brave men and women as well as the many citizens of Boston who have provided their support from the home front.

Aircraft that will be in the area during the week include V-22 Ospreys, CH-53 Sea Stallions, AH-1 Cobras, CH-46 Sea Knights and a UH-1 Iroquois.

For a complete list of activities, visit the Marine Week Boston website at www.Marines.mil/MarineWeek and click on the calendar.