Texas Tech University is adding a heartfelt touch to its Homecoming celebrations this weekend. Four pilots from the Texas Army National Guard’s 36th Combat Aviation Brigade—two Chinook helicopters, a medevac Blackhawk and an assault Blackhawk—are set to perform a spectacular flyover at the Saturday 2:30 p.m. kickoff in Galaxy Stadium. All four aviators are proud alumni of Texas Tech, making the display a true Red Raider reunion.
Practice Run and Hospital Flyover
On Friday evening the pilots will conduct a practice run over Galaxy Stadium, giving fans a preview of the aerial show. After the rehearsal, the aircraft will fly over University Medical Center (UMC) Children’s Hospital, allowing the pediatric patients to witness the thunderous roar before the 60,000‑plus crowd arrives on Saturday.
Hands‑On Experience for Young Patients
Saturday morning the National Guard team will return to UMC Children’s Hospital. In addition to the flyover, the pilots will distribute rally towels and let the children try on pilot gear, including helmets and flight jackets. Hospital staff say the visit provides a morale boost for the young patients, many of whom are undergoing lengthy treatments.
Homecoming Game Details
The Red Raiders will face Arizona State in the Homecoming matchup. The game and the flyover both kick off at 2:30 p.m. Saturday. Fans who cannot attend in person can follow live scoring on the Texas Tech Athletics website.
Community Impact
Events like this underscore the strong ties between Texas Tech, the local military community, and regional healthcare providers. The National Guard’s involvement highlights the service members’ commitment to both national defense and local outreach. For many families, seeing the aircraft overhead and meeting the pilots offers a memorable moment that blends school spirit with gratitude for those who serve.
Previous flyovers, such as the September 18 display after the Red Raiders’ victory over Houston, have drawn enthusiastic reactions on social media. Texas Tech Athletics posted video footage of that event, and fans are eager to see the new formation this weekend.
Whether you’re cheering from the stands, watching from home, or supporting the children at UMC, the Homecoming flyover promises to be a unifying celebration of faith, family, and freedom—core values that Texas Tech and the surrounding community hold dear.
Original reporting: News/Talk 790 KFYO (Lubbock) — read the source article.
