Premier events on tap this week for 70th Anniversary Published May 15, 2012 By Steven J. Merrill 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- The results of all of the hard work, long hours, planning and coordination being done over the last nine months to recognize Ellsworth's 70-year history will be revealed for all to see Friday, Saturday and Sunday. "The entire base has teamed up to develop several stellar events," said Maj. Erik Dunn, 28th Comptroller Squadron commander. "A lot of work has gone into setting the stage for what is sure to be an amazing weekend." May 18 The first event, the 70th Anniversary Kick Off Party, begins at 4 p.m. in the Pride Hangar with a mandatory All Call followed by a party catered by Fuddruckers. Gen. William Fraser III, U.S. Transportation Command commander and former 28th Bomb Wing commander, will address Airmen during the mandatory all call. In addition to great food and live entertainment provided by the U.S. Air Force Heartland of America Band's pop rock ensemble Raptor, there will be games and activities that will appeal to all ages. Guests will also be able to tour static aircraft on display and the base's Missile Training Facility from 4 to 7 p.m. Buses will be available to transport Airmen to the All Call starting at 3 p.m., and at 4:15 p.m. for all others to minimize traffic congestion and make it easier for everyone to attend. Buses will run continuously until 8 p.m. Pick up and drop off locations are: -- Dakota's Parking Lot -- 28th Medical Group Parking Lot -- 28th Maintenance Group Parking Lot May 19 Registrations are still being accepted for the 70th Anniversary Golf Tournament at the Golf Club at Red Rock in Rapid City that begins with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. The tourney is open to everyone. The entry fee includes greens fees, golf cart, practice balls, a special 70th anniversary polo shirt, lunch and prizes. To register, call the 28th Bomb Wing Protocol Office at (605) 385-1205. Numerous displays, special demonstrations by a variety of military agencies, a keynote address by Peter Vodenka who escaped with his wife and two small children from behind the "Iron Curtain" in Czechoslovakia during the Cold War, and much more are on tap for the South Dakota Air and Space Museum Heritage Day. For a complete list of Heritage Day events and times, visit: http://www.facebook.com/pages/South-Dakota-Air-Space-Museum/356678857708713. The big event recognizing Ellsworth's history is the 70th Anniversary Celebration Dinner at the Ramkota Best Western Hotel in Rapid City. This formal affair will begin with a social hour, followed by dinner and addresses by South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard and Air Force Chief of Staff, Gen. Norton A. Schwartz. "This is sure to be one of those 'once-in-a-lifetime' type of events," Dunn added. In addition to the highest ranking officer in the Air Force, numerous former wing commanders and a myriad of political and community leaders will be attending the event emceed by Jack Caudill, news director for KEVN Black Hills FOX television. The U.S. Air Force Heartland of America Band's pop rock ensemble Raptor will be setting the tone for the event and perform a medley of music that captures Ellsworth's history. May 20 The U.S. Air Force Heartland of America Band's pop rock ensemble - Raptor - will perform a free concert at Main Street Square in downtown Rapid City beginning at 2 p.m. Their music stretches from the top 40 pop and country hits of today to popular rock-n-roll classics. "This is one way for us to show our appreciation to Rapid City and the surrounding communities that have supported us for the past 70 years," Dunn said. "Truly, without their support, we would not have been able to accomplish all we have." For information about these events, call the 28th BW Public Affairs office at (605) 385-5056.