Ashland County to Host All-Day Veterans Appreciation Celebration with Helicopter Rides, Live Music, and 300-Drone Night Show
ASHLAND, OH – The skies above Ashland County Airport will thunder and glow on Saturday, August 9, 2025, as the Ashland County Veterans Appreciation Committee presents its annual Veterans Appreciation Celebration, a free, daylong event honoring the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
This year’s celebration promises to be bigger than ever, featuring historic military aircraft, Huey and Cobra helicopter rides, kids’ activities, live entertainment, and a 300-drone light show finale. The event begins with opening ceremonies at 11 a.m. and a keynote address from Major General John C. Harris Jr., Adjutant General of the Ohio National Guard.
FREE Movie Night Kicks Off the Weekend
The festivities begin on Friday, August 8, with a special FREE movie night exclusively for veterans, active-duty military, and one guest each. The showing of the Civil War epic “Glory” will take place at 7 p.m. at The Ashland Theatre, courtesy of the Veterans Appreciation Committee.
Vietnam veteran and local author Greg Gorrell will also attend the screening to sign and sell copies of his book, Vietnam: Survival There and Home, with all proceeds benefiting the Veterans Appreciation Event. Gorrell will also appear at the Saturday celebration to meet attendees and continue supporting the cause.
Aircraft, History, and Helicopter Rides
On Saturday, the Ashland skies will host a display of iconic warbirds including the L-5, P-126, BC12D, Stinson 10, T-6, and TBM Avenger, along with military ground vehicles and a reunion of the 1486th Transportation Company.
Adventurous attendees can book Huey helicopter rides for $125 ($115 pre-paid) or experience a Cobra helicopter ride for $800 ($775 pre-paid)—rare opportunities to soar like the veterans who once flew them.
Family Fun and Veterans First
From foam bashes and bounce houses to Frisbee golf, giant Jenga, Nine Square, Connect 4, a woodcraft project from Home Depot, face painting, and a meet-and-greet with the Kroc Center’s mascot “RJ”, families will find activities running all day. Veterans can also enjoy free haircuts between 1–3 p.m., while supplies last.
A free community lunch will be served at 11:45 a.m. following the opening ceremonies—first come, first served.
Live Music and Living History
The celebration will feature three live bands and a living history performance:
1–3 p.m.: Lincoln Highway Bluegrass Band – A crowd favorite bringing lively bluegrass classics.
3–3:30 p.m.: “General George Patton” – A dramatic portrayal by historian Ken Hammontree.
4:30–6:30 p.m.: The Diamond Project – A spot-on Neil Diamond tribute.
6:30–7:30 p.m.: Matt Young – Local singer-songwriter.
7:30–9 p.m.: Phil Dirt & The Dozers – Legendary oldies band, back by popular demand.
300-Drone Light Show Finale
The day wraps up with a breathtaking 300-drone aerial show at 9:30 p.m., filling the night sky with colorful, synchronized displays. The drone show offers a quiet, animal-friendly alternative to fireworks, ensuring everyone can enjoy the finale.
“Between the aircraft, helicopter rides, live music, and drone show, this is our biggest year yet,” said event organizer Denny Baum. “It’s all about honoring our veterans and giving the community a day to remember.”
Admission is free, and the public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs, spend the day, and celebrate the heroes who served. For more details, contact the Ashland County Veterans Appreciation Committee.
