LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
The Golden Knights, the Army Parachute Team, will perform their heart-pounding aerial antics at Lackland AirFest 2008, held Nov. 1 and 2 at the historic Kelly Field Annex flight line.
The Golden Knights will fall to Earth at speeds of 120 miles per hour toward a landing zone at the event site.
The 13-member elite parachute team can be traced back to 1959 when Brig. Gen. Joseph Stillwell, then Chief of Staff of XVIII Airborne Corps, formed the Army Corps Parachute Team.
Lt. Col. David Johnson, AirFest Director, said, "It's always great to have a team like the Golden Knights come to Lackland, because they exude a sense of courage and honor whenever they perform."
The Golden Knights have grown to a team of 90 soldiers who still reside at the "home of the Airborne" Fort Bragg, N.C. The intent of the Golden Knights is simply stated in their creed.
"The goal I pursue is simple, yet bears a responsibility I must discharge without reservation; when I have gained the respect, admiration and gratitude of the American Public and my teammates, then I fulfilled my mission as a Golden Knight."
Having won 408 national championships, 65 world championships, 14 national and 6 world titles in formation skydiving, they have earned the title "Golden Knights."
Gates for AirFest will open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the aerial demonstrations starting at 10:30 a.m.
With security being Lackland's No.1 priority, visitors will be prohibited from bringing concealed weapons, ice chests, backpacks, large bags, alcohol, skates, and skateboards.
These items must be left in the vehicle.
Pets, with the exception of assistance or guide dogs, will not be allowed at this event.
The latest information on the AirFest can be obtained by visiting the Web Site at
http://www.lackland.af.mil/airshow/index.asp.