A family fun day, complete with a spectacular flypast and a display by the RAF Falcons parachute display team, is being held at Carew Cheriton Airfield this weekend.

‘Wings Over Carew’ which will take place on Saturday, August 5, is being organised by the Carew Cheriton Control Group which runs the war museum and restored World War Two control tower on the site.

Local volunteer Keith Hamer explained that there will be lots of entertainment provided on the day, but emphasised that there is a serious purpose to the event which is to honour the American soldiers who were stationed locally during the Second World War and took part in the D-Day landings.

Mr Hamer said: “The entertainment lasts all day, starting at 10 am. There will be a military vehicle parade, vintage motorbikes, the Swansea Pipe Band, an RAF Falcons parachute jump and an emergency display by the fire brigade, police and ambulance service.

“Tenby and Saundersfoot First Responders will also give lessons on CPR. For youngsters there’s a bouncy castle and children’s rides.”

Mr Hamer said the flypast will be a special moment in the day.

“It’s a Boeing KC-135 and should be a spectacular sight. It’s to honour all the American GIs who lost their lives in the war,” he continued.

During the Second World War soldiers from the American 28th (Infantry) Division were based in Pembrokeshire, preparing for D-Day. General Eisenhower inspected the men in Pembrokeshire in April 1944.

Many lost their lives during the D-Day landings and the brutal Battle of Hurtgen Forest, near Aachen in Germany. A memorial at the control tower is dedicated to the memory of U.S. troops who were stationed in the county from 1943-44.

Mr Hamer added: “On Saturday we will be unveiling a memorial in memory of World War Two African American military personnel who were stationed in the county and took part in the D-Day landings.

“The unveiling will be undertaken by Mr Jak Beula and Professor Uzo Iwobi.

“Local dignitaries will take part in a wreath-laying ceremony in memory of those who lost their lives. A guard of honour is being provided by American soldiers and the Last Post will be played.

“I want to thank the local organisations and individuals who have helped us in putting on the show.”

The event runs from 10 am until 5 pm.

There will be ample parking and everything will be signposted from the main road onto the site. The charge is £5 for adults, children under 16 free.

Refreshments will be available. Funds raised on the day will help towards the upkeep of the control tower and military museum.