Fort Leonard Wood opens Cannon Range to the public for first time since 2015, showing off military aircraft and artillery

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (KY3) - Cannon Range, located on Fort Leonard Wood and operated by the U.S. Air Force Reserve, opened up to the community for the first time since 2015 on Sunday.

Nearly 1,500 people came out to view the aircraft and artillery. Cannon Range Operations Officer Mike Sadler described the kind of aircraft people got to look at.

“You’re going to see A-10′s. A-10′s are known for flying low around here everybody who lives in Missouri knows that,” Sadler said. “It’s a very survivable aircraft. It can take a lot of fire and still get the pilots home.”

Karl Marks is an A-10 pilot who’s racked up over 7,500 hours in the air. He said if you’re interested in becoming a pilot in the military, they’re always in need.

“I like to say I’ve never actually had to have a real job. I still feel that way. I’ve been able to do this for my whole adult life, and it’s been fantastic. All I can say is go do it,” Marks said.

If you missed the open house on Sunday, officers said to contact the base directly, and they can always set up a time to give you a tour.

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