Offutt Air Force Base has canceled the 2019 Defenders of Freedom Open House and Air Show. Offutt officials say while they are fully mission-capable, the recent flooding will not allow them to hosting this year’s annual event.
“The scope of this historic disaster has touched nearly every aspect of Nebraska including Offutt Air Force Base,” Col. Michael Manion, 55th Wing commander, says. “Assessing the impact to the base is ongoing and we will recover, but it is obvious it will be some time before we can return to normal operations or have the capacity to host an event like an air show and open house. We sincerely enjoy opening our gates to the public and appreciate the tremendous support we get from Bellevue, Omaha and the surrounding communities and are committed to continuing the open house and air show at the next available opportunity.”
No dates for future Defenders of Freedom shows have been set at this time. Anyone who has purchased premium “Flight Deck” seating will receive a full refund and no action is required.
Nearly thirty buildings, including two major aircraft maintenance facilities and the headquarters building has been flooded with up to 8 feet of water, and 30 more buildings were damaged.
(Photo: Offutt AFB)