C-5 to perform flyover at Freedom's Call Tattoo

  • Published
  • By 445th Public Affairs
The 445th Airlift Wing's C-5 is one of the many aircraft scheduled to perform a flyover during the Freedom's Call Tattoo Friday, June 27.   

The Air Force Materiel Command Tattoo is an adaptation of a time-honored military tradition, featuring ceremonial musical performances by the U.S. Air Force Band of Flight, military aircraft flyovers, airpower demonstrations, static displays and evening fireworks.

The musical Tattoo traces its heritage to earliest days of organized warfare, when armies found it necessary to signal troops when to advance, retreat, turn, all from a distance and over the din of battle. The blare of a bugle, boom of drums, pitched whistle of fifes, or haunting wail of bagpipes proved very effective for sending these signals. These instruments, alone or in combination, became known as field music. Soldiers regularly drilled to the signals of field music so that in battle their reaction would become instinctive.

Also through the ages, soldiers have sought fellowship and relaxation at taverns near their barracks. By the mid-seventeenth century, military police in Europe would pass through the streets at the end of the day with field music, most often by snare and bass drummers, to sound a signal that the tavern owners were to close the taps on casks of wine or beer, and soldiers should assemble to march back to their barracks.

The word "tattoo" as it is used here, is derived from the mid-seventeenth century Dutch "taptoe" which was a combination of two Dutch words - "tap" meaning faucet, and "toe" which meant "shut". So literally the Dutch word "taptoe" meant shut the tap.

The Tattoo or 'drum beat at the end of day' was eventually expanded to include any sort of ceremonial drum-heavy performance with marching units and military music.

Today, the Tattoo is an unforgettable spectacle combining military drill, inspiring music, and historical naration with aircraft flyovers and fireworks demonstrations that are to excite the senses and patriotic feeling among guests of all ages.

Air Force Materiel Command's fourth annual Tattoo is Friday, June 27 on the grounds behind the National Museum of the United States Air Force at Wright-Patterson AFB. The Tattoo is open to the general public. Admission and parking are free. Recorded event information is available by calling 937-255-7207.

For the first time in Tattoo history, a major entertainer is making an appearance! The Charlie Daniels Band will be performing at Tattoo, bringing with them such hits as "The Devil Went Down to Georgia" and "The South's Gonna Do It."

This year's Tattoo will highlight the Air Force's new "Above All" campaign and the tremendous community and family support provided everyday. As one of the largest single-site employers in Ohio and spanning four counties, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base gives and receives support from its surrounding communities daily.

The Tattoo will feature flyovers by various heritage and current aircraft, music and narration by the U.S. Air Force Band of Flight, on-stage performances and fireworks. 

Gates open with pre-show activities at 4:30 p.m. The event can be accessed through the Museum main entrance on Springfield Pike (Gate 28B), the Armory gate on Harshman Rd. and the gate at the intersection of Airway and Spinning Roads. Gate 22B will be open only for visitors with base identification.

Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a camera. Please note for security reasons that coolers, backpacks, skateboards, in-line skates and glass bottles are not permitted. Strollers, infant diaper bags, cameras and their cases, small purses and pocketbooks are permitted, but subject to inspection. Refreshments are available for purchase during the event.