The 302nd Squadron of the Royal Netherlands Air Force will be featured as a military display at the Brownwood Reunion Celebration this year, and the public is invited to welcome these soldiers as they display three of their military helicopters.
“We are exceptionally lucky to have the 302nd squadron, Royal Netherlands Air Force, being involved with the Brownwood Reunion Celebration on Saturday, September 20. The 302nd squadron will have a CH 47, F model, Chinook helicopter which is the most advanced model of the twin engine, tandem rotor, heavy lift helicopter which will be the biggest helicopter ever to land in downtown Brownwood,” said Dr. Steven Kelly, organizer of the squadron’s visit.
He explained that the 302nd squadron will also have AH 64 Delta Apache Longbow helicopters present.“This is the most advanced attack helicopter in the world,” said Dr. Kelly. “When the Apache gets to a battle, the battle is over.”
The first Apache will land at 9:15 AM on Saturday, September 20, the second Apache will land at 9:30 AM, and the CH 47F will land at 9:45 AM said Dr. Kelly. Each will land on Carnegie near the Bill Monroe overpass. He explained that this timing will allow the personnel to be on the ground and see the parade. There will be a total of 20 soldiers from the 302nd squadron of the Royal Netherlands Air Force. Of these, seven will be student pilots.
“They will be here for a Brownwood, Texas cultural experience,” Kelly stated. “Everyone needs to be sure to give all of them a very warm Brownwood welcome.”
This year’s Brownwood Reunion Celebration will be held September 19, 20 and 21. The community-wide festival features a variety of contests, events, attractions, music, and food in addition to the main concerts.
