F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- The annual open house known as Fort D.A. Russell Days marked its 25th anniversary this year, running from July 19-21, 2019, on F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo.
Paula Taylor, Fort D.A. Russell Days founder and base museum curator, works every year to bring the open house to the community.
“This is our 25th anniversary and I have a vested interest in the event and activities,” said Taylor. “After the (Thunderbirds) air show moved off base, we no longer had an open house.”
Taylor continued, saying the commander at the time requested she expand her living history event into an open house and create what became Fort D.A. Russell Days.
As a way for the base to give back to the community, the three-day event is free to the public and held in conjunction with Cheyenne Frontier Days.
Fort D.A. Russell Days gives the public a chance to see historical buildings and experience the various missions of F. E. Warren AFB throughout the years.
“My family comes out here every year,” said JoAnna Dareling, open house spectator. “We have a lot of fun during the events and my kids love the horse rides.”
Dareling continued by saying the open house is a good opportunity for her and the family to see what the Airmen do throughout base and the mission of F.E. Warren AFB.
Reenactors offered a glimpse into the past through historical presentations and attendees got the chance to view re-enacted battles and cowboy shootouts.
Additionally, F. E. Warren groups came out to provide demonstrations, including the military working dogs from 90th Security Forces Groups and a tour of a training launch facility from maintainers.
The open house was made possible due to the Airmen throughout the wing and members of the local community.
Security Forces increased security throughout the base to keep visitors and residence safe during increased traffic from the event. Also, civil engineering worked to set up parking sites and the event grounds.
The 25th Anniversary will come to a close as The Thunderbirds air show is held over F.E. Warren AFB on July 24th, marking their return to our skies.