The Wings of Honor Air Show will take place as planned Saturday at Walnut Ridge Regional Airport. Despite flooding in the area which has closed some roads, most highways into Walnut Ridge remain open, and the weather is forecast to be ideal for the air show.
Gates to the airport will open at 10 a.m. on Saturday, with the veterans’ tribute and air show starting at 12:15 p.m. There is no admission charge. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and binoculars.
In addition to the air show, which is free of charge, the event will feature vendors, a bounce house, helicopter and airplane displays, World War II era tractors, cars and model airplanes, as well as military equipment and vehicles. Helicopter rides can also be purchased.
The air show will include a Bulldog Formation performance, Yak Acrobatics, Sukhoi Aerobatics and a Red Thund performance that features a T-28, Yak-52 and two CJ6s. The audience will also be able to meet performers after the show.
The air show commemorates the 75th anniversary of the airport, which began in 1942 as the Walnut Ridge Army Flying School. Over 5,300 World War II pilots trained at the facility.
Veterans will be recognized for their service and are encouraged to attend, particularly World War II veterans. The Wings of Honor World War II Museum at the airport will also be open during the celebration Saturday.