Independence to be celebrated at RAF Feltwell

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Kevin Wallace
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  Adults and children from both sides of the Atlantic differ, some more than others. Still, most share at least one cultural similarity - everyone loves the carnival.

Fair rides, game booths, food and shows; RAF Feltwell is spinning up a true American-style festival to celebrate America's Independence Day July 4.

Whether they come for the entertainment, food and firework display, or just to wish the United States a happy birthday; history has shown that thousands of British and Americans flock to RAF Feltwell for the event.

There has typically been high traffic and delays on roads and motor ways in the area.

RAF Feltwell gates will open to the public at noon and close to those trying to enter the base after the fireworks display; which is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m.

Major tourist attractions include an RAF Red Arrows aerial demonstration, a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, a "Sally B" B-17 Flying Fortress fly-over and an American Idol World Tour performance. A Typhoon FGR4, commonly known as the Eurofighter, is also scheduled for an aerial performance.

Motor heads and enthusiasts may be pleased by the car and motorcycle show slated to be held on location.

Though spectators may see military working dogs on duty and a birds of prey demonstration, other animals (with the exception of service animals) will not be allowed into the festival area.

Only hand-carried items such as purses, baby bags and lawn chairs will be allowed into the festival area. Food and beverages can be purchased on site. For security reasons, all items brought into the festival area will be searched before the owner can proceed in.

The following items are not authorized on RAF Feltwell:
  • All liquids except for one half-liter of water per person
  • Coolers
  • Duffle bags and other large hand-carried items
  • Weapons (knives, firearms, objects that fire a projectile that can potentially injure someone, and blunt force objects)
  • Drugs and drug paraphernalia
  • Potential explosive material
  • Protest paraphernalia (banners, spray paint, locks, chains, handcuffs, fence cutting tools and bullhorns)
This is not an all-inclusive list. The 48th Security Forces Squadron and
Ministry of Defence Police may restrict items not conducive to safety, security and public order.

(Information gathered through 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs press release.)