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Media Relations
Kansas State University
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Manhattan, KS 66506
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Source: Tricia Erker, terker05@k-state.edu
News release prepared by: Abigail Crouse, 785-826-2642, acrouse@sal.ksu.edu

Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2008

K-STATE AT SALINA STUDENTS ASSISTING WITH AIR FORCE COMPETITION

MANHATTAN -- Kansas State University at Salina students will soon get an up-close look at what it is like to be an Air Force pilot. Hawgsmoke 2008, a biennial worldwide A-10 bombing, missile and tactical gunnery competition, will be Oct. 15-18 in Salina.

K-State at Salina students will be volunteering during the event, assisting with setup and manning static displays. They also will have the opportunity to meet the Air Force pilots and tour the A-10 aircraft.

"The students are really excited about being able to help out," said Tricia Erker, senior in professional pilot, Wichita, and student volunteer coordinator for Hawgsmoke. "It is a rare opportunity to get to see an A-10 up close, and it's awesome to get to meet the pilots that fly them and hear their stories."

The A-10 Warthawg is the first Air Force aircraft designed for close air support of ground forces. The twin-engine jet aircraft can be used against all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles.

"The planes will take off from the Salina Airport, and the competition will take place at the Smoky Hill Bombing Range," Erker said.

The 2008 competition is hosted by the winners of the previous competition, the 303d Fighter Squadron. Known as the "KC Hawgs," the squadron is from Whiteman Air Force Base, 60 miles east of Kansas City, Mo.