Oslo, Norway –
More than 17,000 spectators from around the world viewed the United States Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team perform during the 2012 Norwegian Military Tattoo held 11-13 May.
The Norwegian Military tattoo is the largest indoor event to take place in Norway and is held every even year since 1994 to highlight the best-of-the-best military performers from across the globe. Tattoos are not only a source of world-class entertainment but are also an invaluable method of community outreach.
"Today, when people think of defense they think of combat, body armor and weapons," said Colonel Christer Johannesen, chief executive and producer of the Norwegian Military Tattoo. "The tattoo is a symbol for reminding people that defense is not just about fighting. It's an important tool for bridging the gap between the military and civilian communities."
The Honor Guard is privileged to have been invited to partake in the noteworthy event, said Capt. Alexander Stanton, commander of the United States Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team. "Participating in the Norwegian Tattoo gave us the unique opportunity to highlight the discipline, teamwork and professionalism of U.S. Air Force Airmen and inspire awareness of our mission to not just the Norwegian public, but to other military organizations and an audience that travels the world to see top-notch military performances."
The Drill Team represented the United States at the tattoo alongside the United States Army Band "Pershing's Own". The U.S. was one of eight countries that participated in the event; the other countries included Belgium, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Ireland, Norway, the Republic of Korea and Switzerland.
The only other time the Drill Team has participated in the Norwegian Military Tattoo was in 1996. "Even before they had left I was saying that they needed to come back," said Johannesen. "Now they have returned and are just as good as I remember - even better!"
For additional information concerning the Drill Team or any of the units of the USAF Honor Guard, visit www.honorguard.af.mil.