RI National Guard marks 25 years with air show

NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. — The Quonset Point Air Show dates back to the 1970s, thrilling audiences with an eye for machines that fly. In the 1980s, it became the Quonset International Air Show.

But it was with the involvement of the Rhode Island National Guard in 1991 that took the event to new heights.

"It was in December of 1991 we received the first assignment for the 1992 show: to host the Air Force Thunderbirds. So that's where it was born, and 25 years later we're very proud of what this has evolved into," said Col. Arthur Floru, of the Rhode Island Air National Guard.

Floru said the concept has never wavered since 1991.

"Hire only the finest best civilian performers available, put on display the capabilities of the strongest, best military on Earth, and do it totally for the benefit of the community," Floru said.

Since then, nearly $2 million has been donated to charities, most going to Hasbro Children's Hospital.

Floru became a C-130 certified pilot in 1990, and he was one of the first pilots in the first Rhode Island Air National Guard Air Show in 1992.

Each year something new, like the first time civilians got to see up until then what was classified as top secret.

"The B2 bomber. We've also had a U2 here in the past," Floru said.

The Blue Angels are able to be flown here at Quonset because the newer versions are currently deployed overseas.

The air show after 9/11 was charged with patriotism.

"An extraordinary level of energy," Floru said. "It was over the top."

The 2000s marched on, not your "run of the mill" event. It has won best air show, twice.

"The International Council of Air Shows -- that's sort of the clearinghouse for all things air shows -- our name was selected," Floru said. "This has become, no kidding, one of the finest airs hows in North America."

This year's Rhode Island National Guard Open House and Air Show will be held Saturday and Sunday at Quonset State Airport.