Celebrate North Carolina’s Rich Military History
Calling all history buffs! From the much-anticipated Wings Over Wayne event to a fort, which was once a project worked on by Robert E. Lee, the NC Coast is home to many military memorials that you don’t want to miss.
Wings Over Wayne
The “most exciting air show in North Carolina” is just weeks away! Wings Over Wayne is held in odd-numbered years and the event serves as a way for the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base to thank local and regional communities for their support to the base’s mission. The mission of SJAFB is to “deliver dominant Strike Eagle Airpower…Anytime, Anyplace.”
This May 20th and 21st, the legendary US Navy Blue Angels venture to Goldsboro to put on a show you won’t forget. SJAFB graciously opens its doors for two days for FREE, daylong air and ground demonstrations. This family-friendly event will also feature performers, entertainment, vendors, food, and drinks.
Battleship North Carolina
The Battleship North Carolina in Wilmington welcomes visitors to walk her decks and step back in time. The crews’ vivid stories allow history to come to life by depicting daily life as well as the fierce combat that the original crew faced during World War II. Guests are even invited to steer the ship, start her engines, and fire her guns during this unique experience.
Fort Macon State Park
Nestled along the edge of Atlantic Beach is North Carolina’s most visited state park – which just happens to include a 19th Century Civil War fort. The fort was once a project of Robert E. Lee, a famous young army engineer. Guided tours feature cannon and musket demonstrations.
Lejeune Memorial Gardens
Onslow County, home to some of the world’s fiercest fighters, United States Marines, is an area rich in history and patriotism. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Lejeune Memorial Gardens which includes the Beirut Memorial, Onslow Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial, Montford Point Marine Memorial and the 9/11 Memorial which includes a beam from the Twin Towers, presented to the first troops who invaded Iraq from the police and firefighters of New York. If you’re in town on September 11th, be sure to attend the moving Patriot Day Observance Ceremony honoring those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 and those who continue to fight the war on terror.
For details regarding the schedule of events for Wings Over Wayne, tickets, as well as accommodation information, visit https://www.wingsoverwayneairshow.com. If you are interested in any of the other military memorials home to the North Carolina Coast, visit http://www.coasthost-nc.com.
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