photo by Tora! Tora! Tora!
World War II era aircraft will soon fill the skies over Russell Regional Airport with pyrotechnics and special ground effects to create a virtual reenactment of the infamous Pearl Harbor invasion of Dec. 7, 1941. The Wings Over North Georgia Air Show returns for its seventh annual event on Oct.
13-14 in Rome, Ga.
Presented by JLC AirShow Management, the two-day event will host Tora, Tora, Tora, the Commemorative Air Force’s (CAF) recreation of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The day that has lived in infamy signaled the beginning of American Involvement in World War II. The demonstration was designed as a living history lesson and is intended to serve as a memorial to soldiers on both sides who gave their lives for their countries.
Six Japanese replica aircraft from the filming of the movie bearing the same name were acquired by the CAF. The act debuted in Galveston in 1972 and continues to perform at 12 to 16 air shows each season. Eight to 10 Tora aircraft are utilized for each performance with more than 60 pyrotechnic effects. The multi-sensory demonstration includes the nostalgic roar of the radial engines flying overhead as special ground effects simulate explosions from bombing and strafing runs as smoke and fire fill the air.
The appearance in Northwest GA is the program’s only stop in the state, and the only one in the southeast outside of Florida.
“In 2017, we hosted our largest and highest attended event in our seven-year history. We wanted to continue the momentum by adding some new and dynamic acts while securing many of the favorite performers from past years,” said JLC AirShow Management President, John Cowman. “We ‘re committed to staging the best show in the state and one of the best in the entire southeast. Tora, Tora, Tora is one of the most unique and thrilling on the air show circuit.”
Opening ceremonies will kick-off on Saturday and Sunday at noon followed by the first flying performances at 12:30 p.m. Airport and remote parking lots will open at 7:30 a.m. with the gates opening to guests at 9 a.m. On-site premium infield and standard dry airport camping options are available online in addition to advance reserved parking. For more information on premium seating and family ticket packages, camping, and parking, visit www.WingsOverNorthGeorgia.com.
The public can follow the Wings Over North Georgia Air Show across social media through Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
The Wings Over North Georgia airshow is an FAA, DoD, and International Council of Air Shows recognized event. For the full list of performers, activities, and ticket options - air show fans, exhibitors, vendors, and sponsors can visit the official Wings Over North Georgia air show website.