Sumter shows appreciation for military at Shaw picnic

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. (AP) — More than 1,000 men and women in uniform at Shaw Air Force Base are being treated to a special lunch in their honor.

For the seventh year, the Sumter Chamber of Commerce is hosting the event Friday in Hangar 1200 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Community Relations Manager Rob Sexton of the 20th Fighter Wing says the event corresponds with the city’s motto, which is “Uncommon Patriotism,” because Sumter residents show so much support for the military.

Sexton says it is the largest such event he has witnessed in any of the 11 military installations where he has been based.

Businesses and donors from the area provide music, hamburgers, hot dogs, beverages and side dishes.