Air Force Week continues in St. Louis

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ST LOUIS (AFPN) --  Activities celebrating the first Air Force Week continue today with the opening of the Air Force interactive exhibit "Cross Into the Blue" and special guest appearances at the St. Louis Science Center.

"Cross Into the Blue," a high-tech, interactive exhibit featuring an F-16 Fighting Falcon, an extreme equilibrium ride and several interactive games, attracted a steady crowd of visitors throughout its first day at the science center. The exhibit is at the center today and Aug. 10 and free to the public.

Air Force Lt. Col. Terry Virts, a NASA astronaut, and Maj. Rob Novotny, a fighter pilot featured in the IMAX film "Fighter Pilot: Operation RED FLAG," spoke to crowds of more than 100 about their experiences in the Air Force. They met with visitors, answered questions and signed autographs throughout the afternoon.

The purpose of Air Force week is to raise public awareness of the service's operations, capabilities and support of the war on terrorism; showcase Airmen; and thank the public for its heartfelt support of Air Force men and women.

Other events scheduled during the week include:
-- Appearances at the science center by members of the Air Force's precision flying team, the Thunderbirds, on Aug. 10. "Fighter Pilot" will also be shown twice daily at the center through Aug. 11.

-- A flyover of downtown St. Louis, including some of its key landmarks such as the Arch and Busch Stadium, on Aug. 10. The flyover will include a B-2 Spirit bomber, a C-130J, a KC-135 Stratotanker and the Thunderbirds.

The week will be capped off Aug. 12-13 with an open house and Air Fest at Scott Air Force Base, Ill. In addition to the Thunderbirds, the air show will include fighter and transport aircraft flyovers, parachute jumps, numerous static displays and other demonstrations. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information on Air Force Week events, visit www.afweek.af.mil.