Berlin Airlift - 60 Years

[wackychick]

Air mobility leaders gathered for the annual Phoenix Rally to acknowledge past and present accomplishments while celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift March 24 through 28 here. At this year's conference, attendees acknowledge the historical accomplishments of Berlin Airlift along with special guest, retired Col. Gail Halvorsen, the Berlin Candy Bomber.

The celebration this year was special because it marked the 60th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift, which represents the basic roots from which today's Air Force is built.

The airlift began in 1948 in Germany when the Soviet Union blockaded Berlin, which left 2 million residents without a way to import food or supplies they needed to survive. The only available supply for the city was by air. The United States, British and French armed forces came together to deliver food, medicine and other supplies in what became known as Operation Vittles.

Read about the celebration recognizing this huge undertaking