I’m an enthusiast of anything with an engine bolted to it – so the Wings, Wheels and Rotors Expo immediately got my attention. This past weekend was the 10th year of the popular event, held at the California National Guards Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) in Los Alamitos, Calif., and sponsored by that city’s Chamber of Commerce.
The event grew out of a Mustang car show held back in 2001, which included a couple of World War II P-51 Mustang fighters. It was very successful, and from there Wings Wheels and Rotors Expo was born, now featuring military aircraft, vintage aircraft, helicopters, radio-controlled aircraft, vintage and custom cars and vendors.
Sponsored by Mitsubishi Motors of America and many other local businesses, the event this past weekend drew a huge crowd of fans. If you were around Southern California over the weekend, you may have seen military aircraft flying low and slow as part of the event. I watched a gorgeous Navy fighter make its approach to the event for a landing, reportedly sent from a nearby aircraft carrier.
Expo attendees enjoyed a huge display and assortment of cars, motorcycles, airplanes, warbirds, music and other special activities. The California National Guard Soldier of the Year was announced Sunday morning. Los Alamitos Army Airfield is the last remaining military airfield in the greater LA/Orange County area with the longest runways in Orange County. The JFTB is also the disaster support area for Southern California.
More than just a static display expo, attendees got opportunities to get up close and personal, with tours and flights offered. Two chapters of the Experimental Aircraft Association Young Eagles were providing free airplane rides for youth between the ages of eight and 17. Adventure Helicopters offered helicopter rides for a small fee. A portion of the proceeds are going to the JFTB Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) funds to support the armed forces personnel on base.
Overall, the vibe was fun and exciting this past weekend on the flight line at Los Alamitos Army Airfield. It was a great family event that is highly recommended – even admission and parking were free. More information about the event, including a photo gallery, can be found at the expo website, wwrexpo.net.
By Vince Bodiford
