45th Space Wing showcases mission during Family Day

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Ajay Reddy
  • 5th Space Launch Squadron Delta IV Responsible Engineer
CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. --  The 45th Space Wing hosted a rare opportunity for more than 2,500 family and friends to tour Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida, April 23, 2016. Guests received an inside look at space launch operations here and landing facilities at the most active spaceport on the Eastern seaboard of the U.S.

"The 45th Space Wing Family Day was a huge success for all of our wing and mission partner families on a spectacular day," said Col. Eric Krystkowiak, 45th Launch Group commander. "It was a great opportunity to showcase all of the hard work that our combined team accomplishes on a daily basis." 

Guests visited the Air Force Space and Missile Museum, the Morrell Operations Center, the Naval Ordnance Test Unit, the Air Force Space and History Center and the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse. They also received an up-close-look at Space Launch Complexes 1, 2, 3 and 4; SLC-13, now SpaceX Landing Zone 1; SLC-14, the site of Mercury program; SLC-37, the ULA Delta IV; and SLC-41, the ULA Atlas V. 

Additionally, visitors viewed ULA launch vehicles at various stages of processing; at the ULA Horizontal Integration Facility, in front of a Delta IV rocket first stage. Then went to SLC-37, where guests saw the Delta IV Heavy, the nation's largest heavy lift rocket, which was visible inside its Mobile Service Tower.

"It was great hosting friends and families at the Cape," said Capt. Joseph Dechert, 5th Space Launch Squadron and event volunteer. "I was able to show friends the awesome mission we have out here and the critical role we have in space launch operations. It was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity for everybody who attended."

Guests also had an opportunity to learn more about each other's individual roles and responsibilities of all who contribute to the vision of the 45th Space Wing, which is known as The World's Premiere Gateway to Space.

"From the historical sites to the new commercial activities and current rockets, all of our families were treated to an incredible experience," Krystkowiak said. "We look forward to hosting a day like this next year and are glad everyone had a great time."

 

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