NAVAL AIR STATION WHIDBEY ISLAND, Wash. – Naval Air Station Whidbey Island will hold it’s fourth annual Public Open House on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at Ault Field from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the base’s establishment. The base’s official commissioning was announced on Sept. 21, 1942, at the Seaplane Base by Commanding Officer Capt. Cyril T. Simard.
The public open house is an opportunity for the public to learn about past, current, and future operations at the Navy’s only air station in the Pacific Northwest and see last year’s Navy Installation of the Year.
Aircraft static displays will include the EA-18G Growler, P-3C Orion, MH-60 Knighthawk helicopter, the new C-40 Clipper and a P-8A Poseidon, which will soon replace the P-3C’s here. Aerial demonstrations planned at this time include the EA-18G, P-3C and Search and Rescue helicopter.
There will also be other visual displays, guided bus tours, K-9 Working Dog demonstrations, Explosive Ordnance Detachment displays, bouncy toys for children and a climbing wall for those wishing to test their climbing acumen. Aviation memorabilia will also be available for purchase as well as a variety of food and beverages.
Schedule of events include:
0800 Pre-register 5K runners
0800 SNJ and TBM Avenger War bird Arrivals
0900-1030 5K Flightline Run
0900-1500 Open House
1000 National Anthem, SAR Flag Pass
1030 SAR Demo
1130 EA-18G break and landing
1230 P-8 Fly by
Due to operational and training commitments, schedule of events is subject to change.
All visitors will be directed to enter the base through the Charles Porter gate. Anyone over the age of 18 will be required to have state or government issued identification for access. Buses will be available at the Charles Porter gate for visitors needing transportation assistance to the Open House from the gate.
Due to security measures, the following items are not allowed on base: alcohol, large bags, backpacks, weapons to include pocket knives, coolers and pets. Additionally, drugs or drug paraphernalia to include marijuana products are prohibited from the base. Items permitted will be strollers, diaper bags, small women’s purses, wheelchairs, service dogs, bottled water, cameras and video recorders.
