This year's theme for the Wings Over Gillespie Air Show was "Salute to D-Day," in commemoration of the 65th anniversary of the Normandy Invasion. The annual event held at Gillespie Field in El Cajon featured static displays of various types of planes and helicopters from the very small sport aircraft to WWII-era cargo planes and bombers, as well as classic cars and other military vehicles (one complete with a really life-like soldier mannequin in front of a Willys Jeep). Other attractions included aerial fire fighting and rescue demonstrations, and re-enactments including a live parachute drop from “D-Day Doll.” One of the featured planes at the show was a meticulously restored C-53 that actually launched gliders and then dropped paratroopers over Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1945.
As in years past, there were various booths selling everything from hats to WWII-era placards to flying lessons.
Friday is typically a day for school children from area schools to get a preview of the show. Accompanied by parents and teachers, the kids get to tour various aircraft, sit in a cockpit simulator, and get briefings from Cal Fire fire fighters aboard a static helicopter.
The Wings Over Gillespie event is normally held in late spring. Flyers and additional information will be posted on this site.
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