ILOPANGO, El Salvador –
Cols. David Mattimore and Nelson Perron were taken aback for all the right reasons during their first trip to El Salvador.
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, which 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 the band or Wing have appeared at Ilopango under the New Hampshire National Guard-El Salvador State Partnership Program, now in its 25th year.
“We couldn’t walk 10 feet without someone wanting to take a picture with us,” said 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 NH guardsmen strolled among a throng of thousands, soaking in the largest annual aviation and aerobatic exhibition in Latin America with a deep sense of wonder. Never mind they were drenched with sweat.
“It was great to see how much they like our band,” said Mattimore, state Army aviation officer and Black Hawk pilot.
While there was some discussion of future aviation exchanges with the Salvadorans, the focus was more informal and relaxed, Mattimore said.
A gift exchange solidified what was an unforgettable weekend. They visited a small surfing village on the Pacific coast and hot springs near the Guatemalan border.
They also sampled a traditional Salvadoran staple, pupusas, which are hand-pressed tortillas made of corn or rice stuffed with refried beans, cheese or a combination of the two.
“I’m a huge fan now,” Perron said.
“I would absolutely have them again,” Mattimore added.
A ceremony to recognize the 25th anniversary of the state partnership, begun in 2000 and guided by four adjutants general and seven defense ministers, is being planned for later this year.