Officials at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska have announced the 2019 Defenders of Freedom Air & Space Show has been canceled due to recent flooding in the area.
According to the base's Facebook post, while the 55th wing and other units are "fully mission capable," the disastrous effects of the floods have made hosting the airshow impossible.
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“The scope of this historic disaster has touched nearly every aspect of Nebraska including Offutt Air Force Base,” Col. Michael Manion, 55th Wing commander, said.
“Assessing the impact to the base is ongoing and we will recover, but it is obvious it will be some time before we can return to normal operations or have the capacity to host an event like an air show and open house. We sincerely enjoy opening our gates to the public and appreciate the tremendous support we get from Bellevue, Omaha, and the surrounding communities and are committed to continuing the open house and air show at the next available opportunity.”
Currently, there are no announcements about rescheduling the event. Also, no future dates for upcoming Defenders of Freedom shows have been set.
However, those that did plan to attend and purchased premium “Flight Deck” seating will be receiving a full refund.
The flooding has displaced about 20 Offutt members and their families but the Airman and Family Readiness Center will be hosting an event at Emergency Family Assistance Center March 21 and 22 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Agencies including Air Force Aid, Military and Family Life Counseling, Red Cross, and chaplains will be available for those that are in need.