Mako flyovers: An Independence Day tradition

  • Published
  • By Col. William B. Binger
  • 482nd Fighter Wing commander
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  On this Independence Day, a handful of 482 FW maintainers and pilots will be taking a large chunk of time away from family and friends to put on their uniforms and come to work. The 4-ship formation of Mako F-16s will be flying back-to-back-to-back flyovers for Independence Day celebrations in Key Biscayne, Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay.

We've been asked to soar above these events as our community celebrates our nation's 232nd birthday, and we're proud to fly over these events for many reasons.

On Friday, hundreds of thousands of people in Miami-Dade County will be paying tribute to our American Flag, celebrating independence, and honoring veterans who've fought and died to protect our freedoms. I regard flyovers as one avenue of reciprocating the public's continued support of the Armed Forces and a way of honoring those who serve and have served this nation. Flyovers are a way for the Air Force to emphasize to the public that we're here to protect freedom...every day.

In addition, our jets serve as a poignant reminder that Independence Day isn't just a summer festival. Great men and women have sacrificed their lives to protect our freedom. Generations of Americans have loaded muskets, fought in trenches, stormed beaches, parachuted out of planes, patrolled streets and fought in all types of terrain imaginable in the name of freedom.

On this 4th of July, I'd like to say thank you... to all of our military and civilian 482 FW members for your service. We are a free nation because of your willingness to sacrifice and serve. I also thank your families for their support, because without it you could not do your job. Have a wonderful and safe weekend.