The Tribune (San Luis Obispo County) Guided by an event parachutist, the U.S. flag descends onto California Mid State Fair in Paso Robles, Calif., Aug. 2.

The national anthem was followed by the annual bull riding contest. Participating Soldiers and family members received free admission to the event as well as tickets for fair rides and entry.

This is the second consecutive year Charlie Company has sponsored this event. Company commander, Maj. Todd Hourihan said, “This is an incredible opportunity to give back to the local community who embraces the small military footprint here. We have done this event for the last two years and the sense of patriotism this small community has is overwhelming. The Soldiers and families, especially the children of the military, see their fathers and mothers in front of a packed grandstand being honored for their service to the nation and get to enjoy a day at the fair. This event builds strong Army families with a great day of fun for all.”

The California Mid State Fair is a key spot for popular musical artists to include on their tours. Some of the highlights from this year included Tim McGraw, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Kiss, Black Eyed Peas, Whitesnake and several more.

After two successful years of positive responses, the Outlaws are looking forward to participating in 2010 event. The fair will run from July 21st to August 1st. Some of the Outlaws also volunteered earlier this year when the local community celebrated Memorial Day. Private First Class Kyle Smith, Spc. Joshua Drummond, Spc. Donald Proietty, and Staff Sgt. Garrish Miller assisted in setting up 137 8x6 foot American flags in the Paso Robles District Cemetery during the Memorial Day weekend on May 23rd, 2009.

“It felt good honoring the veterans who help mold our country today”, Drummond. The event was hosted by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10965 and the flags were donated by family members of local veterans. Services continued throughout the weekend at other cemeteries throughout the county.