So what are you doing this weekend? I’m going to check out the Air Force Memorial Dedication over in Arlington.

For months I pondered the significance of the monstrosity that loomed above me each time I drove over to the Pentagon City Mall. When WFY finally clued us in, I was still puzzled by its existence. Clearly, I understood the “bomb burst” maneuver symbolized, but not the presence of the memorial in that particular location. At least not until I read the spire fact sheet and the reason behind the memorial.

If, like me you were a sometimes military brat, you might just feel the same sense of obligation that I do to check out the goings on surrounding the 270 foot (at the highest spire) memorial. Each one of the spires represents the Air Force as a unit; active, guard and reserve, as well as the three core values that make the Air Force what it is today – integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all that is done.

See an abbreviated list of happenings behind the jump:

At 9 a.m. open house featuring a variety of performances, including the United States Air Force Drill Team, interactive displays and exhibits of Air Force equipment, helicopters and aircraft;

Ceremony commences at 1:30 p.m. and is best viewed by the general public from the South Pentagon Parking Lot;

During the ceremony there will be an aerial review of historic and modern Air Force aircraft, including an appearance by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds – the Air Force demonstration squadron;

Immediately following the ceremony there will be a free concert by the U.S. Air Force Band featuring country music star Lee Ann Womack;

Shuttles to and from the Memorial will be available after the dedication ceremony all day Saturday; and

Saturday evening after dark, a short fireworks display will light up the sky over the memorial site.

It is highly recommended that you take the metro into Arlington for the festivities. Due to the event many roads will be closed around the Memorial site from 13 October through 15 October. Also be aware of heightened security.

Check out this Washington Post article for more information.