Martinsburg air show to change venue in 2013 - WBOY.com: Clarksburg, Morgantown: News, Sports, Weather

Martinsburg air show to change venue in 2013

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Organizers of "The Thunder over the Blue Ridge Air Show" said they will be changing the show's location this year.

The air show will take place May 11-12 on the civilian side of the air field at the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport. That is the same location the air show used for several years before moving to the 167th Airlift Wing's base in 2010. 

In addition, the 167th Airlift Wing will not host the open house and air show this year due to Department of Defense budget cuts and fiscal uncertainty.

"Unfortunately, the uncertainty in our national financial picture has forced us to consider the possibility of some rather dramatic cuts in our funding. I must ensure all the members of the 167th Airlift Wing are fully trained and ready to do the work we do for our nation," said Col. Roger Nye, commander of the 167th Airlift Wing.

Nic Diehl, president of the Thunder over the Blue Ridge board, said the 2013 show will feature the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, which will be parked on the base ramp during the event.

"The 167th has done so much for our local community and has been so generous in opening their base for this event that the Thunder over the Blue Ridge board decided it was time to do something nice for them," Diehl said. "Our community supports the base and appreciates the sacrifice the members of the 167th make for our freedom. Hosting the United States Air Force Thunderbirds is a great way to say thank you to them."

Diehl said another difference spectators may notice this year is a change in the parking area. This year, parking will be off of Novak Drive and Airport Road. Spectators will have more grassy viewing areas, and the show will have the backdrop of the C-5 hangers at the 167th Airlift Wing.

As in years past, the event will benefit the United Way of the Eastern Panhandle.

Information will be available on the air show's website, www.martinsburgairshow.com.