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Fairchild represented at county fair opening ceremonies

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Benjamin Stratton
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
SPOKANE, Wash. --  A crowd of nearly 100 community members gathered as local, state and federal government officials gave way to the 61st Annual Spokane County Interstate Fair with Fairchild's own Honor Guard, National Anthem Singer and the installation's commander representing Sept. 7.

"County fairs are about family, friends, good food and fun," said Col. Brian Newberry, 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander. "My family and I have lived in a lot of places throughout my 21 years in the Air Force. My favorite assignments have always been in places where you find...friendliness and down-to-earth values, but the welcome we've received from the Inland Northwest community has redefined my baseline for hospitality. Thank you."

This was the colonel's first time attending the fair since taking the reins of the Inland Northwest's largest employer which grosses an economic impact of more than $460 million annually.

The colonel said it is because of the Inland Northwest's communities the base is able to "fly, fight and win anywhere in the world."

Referencing real-world numbers, Newberry explained Fairchild and its community's importance to war fighters serving at deployed locations around the globe.

"Last week we offloaded more than five million pounds of fuel to 434 combat aircraft," he said. "Those aircraft were then able to support more than 70 troops-in-contact events. Battles were won because of air support made possible by this community. You've been our wingmen since 1942."

In recognition of Fairchild's service men and women, admission to the fair will be free to all military members and their family members with proper identification on Sept. 11.

"I salute all of you for your compassion, your support and your friendship," Newberry said. "It truly is an honor to be part of this community. Thank you."