Russian Air Show

RAMENSKOYE AIRFIELD, Zhukovsky, Russia – Col. J.D. Clifton, 100th Operations Group commander, 100th Air Refueling Wing, Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, talks with some "Moscow Children" Aug. 23 at the Moscow International Air Show. The children, aged between 6 and 16, visited the show as part of a program called Moscow Open Festival for Children's Creativity. They were all born during the air show since it began 16 years ago, and are from local towns. About 60 children attended and took part in activities during the day, which included seeing the U.S. Air Force aircraft. Leading up to the competition, all the children either made models or did artwork, which was later judged. There were four categories -- aviation, space craft, handicrafts and artwork, which were all judged in a competition. The top three winners in each group received prizes, and members from the U.S. Air Force presented the children with additional aviation materials, such as models of Air Force aircraft, pens, pencils and pins. The air show runs through Aug. 26 and includes DOD participation of static displays and aerial flight demonstrations. The air show is one of the premier events of its type in the world. U.S. participation in the air show demonstrates our commitment to international security, promotes international cooperation and contributes to U.S. foreign policy objectives. About 65 airmen from bases in Europe and the states are participating in this year’s air show. (U.S. Air Force photo by Karen Abeyasekere)