Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni public affairs office provides the following update in regard to the JMSDF/MCAS Iwakuni Friendship Day 2015 Airshow, scheduled for May 3, 2015.

The event official website  -  friendship-day.net

The event official facebook  -  www.facebook.com/FriendshipDayIwakuni

We are excited about the big event, and safety is a key to ensuring fun and success for all.  All visitors should adhere to the safety tips we provided in previous public releases. This year, the venue is located farther from the pedestrian access points and visitors will have to walk farther than in years past.  Shuttle buses or tour buses are the preferred method of accessing the installation for the elderly, small children and the physically disabled.

• EVENT MAP – is now available for download at the event official website. friendship-day.net
• AIR SHOW PERFORMERS – In addition to Japan Air Self Defense Force Blue Impulse and Breitling Wingwalkers as previously announced, Rex Pemberton skydiving, JMSDF ceremonial flight, a Close-Air-Support Demo, Simulated Aerial Refuel Demo, F-16 Demo, Masa Utsumi (Whisky Papa Pilot), Yoshi Muroya (Red Bull Air Race Pilot), and more will be roaring, soaring and tumbling in the sky, along with scheduled arrivals and departures from ANA.
• AIRCRAFT STATIC DISPLAY – Subject to change, we currently have numerous U.S. and Japanese aircraft static displays, to include:  U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18, EA-6B, UC-12W as well as KC-130J, our newest Iwakuni family member since 2014.  Furthermore, F-15, KC-135, HH-60G, E-3, UH-1, and Super Hornets and Growlers.  We will also have an MV-22 static display again this year!  Japan Self Defense Force aircraft will include US-1A and US-2, known for its unique capability as flying boat, EP-3C, OP-3C, U-36A, MH-53E and MCH-101.
• GROUND EVENTS – A wide variety of children’s favorites will be available at the event venue:  Bouncers, Slides, Choo-choo train, Photo booth (where children can try on actual JMSDF uniforms and flight suits), a tug-of-war with a real aircraft, and many more attractions will be available for families and will capture children’s attention.  The arts and crafts booth offers a moment to learn local culture and heritage.  Try make your own paper lantern in a gold fish shape, or join in assembling, touching and feeling of a small-scale model of the Kintai bridge.  You won’t want to miss Miss. Iwakuni, as she is appointed as the Commander, Fleet Air Wing 31, for a day, and she takes the lead during the JMSDF traditional ceremony and parade.
• STAGE PERFORMANCE – Live entertainment acts will command the main stage for music lovers.  JMSDF Kure Music Band features Petty Officer 3rd Class Yukari Miyake this year, known for her nickname JMSDF diva.  Enjoy yourself with JMSDF’s fancy drill, uniform pageant and more!
• FOOD AND BEVERAGES – More than 80 vendors will be on hand to fill your hungry stomach.  Come and experience cultural enrichment and diversity of food.  American pizza, steak, hamburgers, hot dogs, turkey legs, as well as snack items such as candy and chips.
• PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES – Political activities, gatherings, displays and signs are prohibited.  Please follow the instructions provided by uniformed personnel at all times while on base.  We reserve the right to escort off the station any person in conflict with our security and safety standards, or interfering with an otherwise enjoyable experience for everyone.
• KICKBOARD, ROLLERBRADES – are strictly prohibited on base at the event venue.
• DRONES – are strictly prohibited on base at the event venue, or in the air space over Iwakuni.
• SAFETY TIPS – It is important to keep your safety in mind while attending Friendship Day.  Please practice the following guidelines:
  Keep Hydrated.
  • Sunblock/Use Hats or Umbrellas.
  • Wear Comfortable Shoes.
  • Have a Designated Meeting Spot.
  • Parents, please ensure your children have your cell phone number and name in their pockets at all times in case you get separated.
  • Parents, please keep your children with you at all times - Do not leave them unattended in any areas.