PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The 302nd Airlift Wing will highlight its strong ties to the Colorado Springs community during the annual Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo’s "First Responders & 302nd Airlift Wing Night" on Thursday, July 16, at the Norris Penrose Event Center.
The special evening emphasizes the deep connection between local citizens and the Reserve Airmen who live, work, and serve in the Pikes Peak region. Wing senior leadership will deliver opening remarks alongside the El Paso County Sheriff to kick off the night’s events. Highlighting the military tribute, Technical Sergeant Christopher Washington, a member of the 302nd Airlift Wing, will perform the national anthem.
Spectators can also look forward to an aerial demonstration, as the wing will perform a C-130H Hercules flyover during the opening ceremonies on both Wednesday, July 15, and Thursday, July 16.
"The 302nd Airlift Wing is thrilled to partner with the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo once again," said Chief Master Sergeant Andrea Estes, 302nd AW Command Chief. "The vast majority of our Reservists call Colorado Springs home. We are incredibly grateful for this community's enduring support of military and veteran causes, and this event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our mission capabilities to the neighbors we stand ready to protect."
First established in 1937, the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo is one of the region’s longest-standing cultural traditions. Since 1946, proceeds from the rodeo have directly supported local military service members, veterans, and their families, aligning with the wing's priority to support military families.
The 302nd Airlift Wing's primary mission is to provide world-class tactical airlift and combat support. Ready at a moment's notice, the wing comprises over 1,400 premier Reserve Airmen dedicated to global mission readiness.
For more information, contact the 302d Airlift Wing Public Affairs office at 302aw.pa@us.af.mil, and by phone (719) 556-4117. Or visit us at https://www.petersonschriever.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/302d-Airlift-Wing/.