BERLIN, Germany — More than 200,000 people caught a glimpse of the United States military’s airpower during the ILA 2010 Berlin International Aerospace Exhibition and Conferences June 8 to 13.

Approximately 90 military aircrew and support personnel as well as six aircraft participated in the Berlin Air Show, one of the premier events of its type in the world.

Featured military aircraft included the B-1B Lancer, C-130J Hercules, C-17 Globemaster III, C-5 Galaxy, KC-135 Stratotanker and B-52 Stratofortress.

“It took a lot of hard work between the U.S. Air Force, air show organizers and the Bundeswehr,” said Air Force Col. Steve Vlasak, U.S. Air Forces in Europe director of Safety. “I’m very proud of our airmen on how they represented the United States Air Force and know that their efforts will go a long way towards strengthening our relationship with Germany.”

During the weeklong event, prominent guests visited the U.S. military’s area, including the Federal Republic of Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel and Philip Murphy, U.S. Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany. Air crew provided tours to the public, educating them about each of the aircraft's capabilities. The visitors also received an opportunity to see inside of each aircraft.

"I was impressed by the warm welcome given to the American aircrew, and I would like to thank the German Bundeswehr who was especially generous with their time, equipment and manpower,” said Navy Lt. Cmdr. Kimberly Ernst, European Command J-5 Security Cooperations Branch Trade Show coordinator. “The success of our participation at ILA 2010 was a great cooperative effort between the U.S. Department of Defense and the good people of ILA, Messe Berlin, BDLI and the German Bundeswehr. I hope we have the honor of being asked to participate again.”

In its 100-year history, the 2010 Berlin Air Show was the largest to date with more than 1,153 exhibitors from 47 countries, including the United States.

The U.S. military’s participation in the Berlin Air Show is aimed at promoting standardization and interoperability of equipment with NATO allies and other potential coalition partners, and highlighting the strength of the United States’ commitment to the security of Europe. It is also a way for the U.S. to enhance military-to-military relationship with Germany, as well as foster good relations and better understanding among nations.