Smidgen of rain can't dampen spirits; Edwards has blast at Bash

  • Published
  • By Kenji Thuloweit and Diane Betzler
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Neither rain, nor thunder nor lightning strikes were enough to dampen the Independence Day Summer Bash celebration at Edwards July 4.

Hundreds turned out for a wide variety of entertainment, music, food, rides and mingling with family and friends at the 20th annual summer bash, which was hosted by the 95th Force Support Squadron and free to the entire Edwards community.

A mid-afternoon thunderstorm cell brought a smattering of rain, and the threat of lightning caused a brief hiatus to the festivities. But in short order the celebration was on again.

"We took a safety pause because of the lightning but after the cell went by, the rest of the evening was absolutely beautiful," said Col. Amy Arwood, 95th Air Base Wing vice commander. "I brought my mother and sister who were visiting from out of town and I got to meet a lot of the Edwards community."

Attendees flocked to the attractions and entertainment, but also enjoyed the camaraderie.

"I think it's good to bring the base community together to celebrate the freedom that has been protected by many from Team Edwards," Veronica Buening, base resident.

"My favorite part was seeing everyone come back out after the storm and continue to have fun," said Ms. Buening.

Ms. Buening said the food and fireworks were worth the wait.

"They had a lot of good fireworks and it was fun listening to the remarks from people watching," she said.

The event offered something for everyone.

"There was a mini roller coaster that offered thrills for youngsters from 2 to 8 years old and live music for adults of all ages to enjoy," said Jet Fabara, 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs specialist, who brought his entire family to join in the fun.

At Wings Field, just across from Roberts Field, 95th FSS provided food and beverage booths, a beer garden, live entertainment and an information and first-aid booth.

The older crowd enjoyed live entertainment featuring the Gooding Band, La Halau O'Kananinapua Hula Dancers and the music of the local band Smackwater Jack.

The young ones got to cool off on a giant inflated Slip n' Slide, had fun jumping on the bouncy castles, enjoyed a carnival ride and lots of free watermelon.

The biggest attraction for the children was the Euro Bungee.

But, the fireworks were the talk of the base.

"The fireworks were the best; you come out to see the fireworks," said Mr. Fabara.

"We can't use fireworks back home (in Rosamond) so it was awesome for the kids to come out and see the fireworks up close."