Tattoo tonight at Wright-Patterson

The free event will include musical acts, military aircraft fly-overs and fireworks.


How to go

What: Fifth Annual Air Force Material Command’s Freedom Call Tattoo

Where: Grounds of the National Museum of the United States Air Force

When: Friday, June 26. Gates open at 4:30 p.m.

Cost: Admission and parking is free

What to bring: lawn chairs, blankets, and cameras

Leave at home: coolers, backpacks and pets.

Military tattoos date back to the earliest days of warfare when bugles, drums and whistles signaled commands to the armies.

The word “tattoo” is derived from 17th century Dutch words meaning “shut the tap.” Now tattoo is used to refer to any sort of ceremonial performance with drums and military music.

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base will open its gates to the public Friday, June 26, for the fifth annual Air Force Material Command’s Freedom’s Call Tattoo. It will take place on the grounds of the National Museum of the United States Air Force and is expected to draw 75,000 people.

“This is a chance for us to thank the people of Miami Valley for their continued support of our military people at home and abroad,” said Air Force spokeswoman Kathleen Lopez.

Gates open for the free event at 4:30 p.m. where people can look at some of the Air Force’s projects, climb a 22-foot rock wall, or maneuver through an 85-foot obstacle course. Food and drinks will be sold.

The tattoo begins at 8 p.m. It will include a swearing-in ceremony for Air Force recruits, musical performances, historical narration with aircraft fly-overs, and a fireworks show at 10 p.m.

This year’s headline performer will be country artist and producer Aaron Tippin, who is scheduled to take the stage at 9 p.m.

For more information call 225-7207 or go online to http://www.wpafb.af.mil/tattoo/.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-9391 or jneidhard@Dayton

DailyNews.com.

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