CONCORD, N.H. - The New Hampshire National Guard’s senior Army and Air aviation commanders met their counterparts from the Salvadoran Air Force during the Ilopango Air Show in El Salvador.
The show featured a KC-46A flyover by the 157th Air Refueling Wing and performances by the 39th Army Band on Feb. 1 and 2.
It was the fifth time in six years that the band or Wing appeared at Ilopango under the Department of Defense National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program. The New Hampshire National Guard and El Salvador have been partners for 25 years.
“We couldn’t walk 10 feet without someone wanting to take a picture with us,” said Col. Nelson Perron, commander of the 157th ARW. “Being appreciated for what we represent by being in the United States military and the New Hampshire National Guard was humbling.”
With temperatures in the 90s, a small contingent of uniformed New Hampshire Guardsmen strolled among a throng of thousands, soaking in the largest annual aviation and aerobatic exhibition in Latin America.
“It was great to see how much they like our band,” said Col. David Mattimore, state Army aviation officer and Black Hawk pilot.
While there was some discussion of future aviation exchanges with the Salvadorans, Mattimore said the focus was more informal and relaxed.
There was a gift exchange and visits to a small surfing village on the Pacific coast and hot springs near the Guatemalan border.
They also sampled a traditional Salvadoran staple, pupusas, hand-pressed tortillas made of corn or rice and stuffed with refried beans and or cheese.
“I’m a huge fan now,” Perron said.
A ceremony to recognize the 25th anniversary of the state partnership, guided by four adjutants general and seven defense ministers, is planned later this year.