Military helicopters have been spotted flying over Houston in recent days, and now, we’re starting to figure out why.
Five Apache choppers were parked at Sugar Land Regional Airport on Wednesday morning, and city officials said there’s a reason they’re there.
Wednesday is also Armed Forces Appreciation Day at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The helicopters parked in Sugar Land were part of the rodeo’s plans to honor men and women who served the country.
RELATED: Military choppers spotted flying around Houston
The Sugar Land spokesperson said no military aircraft were at the airport, adding that no military aircraft are based there.
Earlier this week, people on social media were posting photos and videos of several military helicopters flying low over Houston.
The sightings come as Gov. Greg Abbott said patrols of key sites are ramping up in the wake of the Iran conflict.
A few days ago, Abbott directed the Texas Military Department to activate service members for “Operation Fury Shield” to protect citizens from any potential threat of retaliation after the United States/Israel joint attack on Iran.
The TMD told KHOU 11 News that the choppers seen in the Houston area aren’t Texas National Guard assets.
Some citizens said the Iran conflict is still on the top of their minds.
“It is worrisome, but I guess we just have to have faith that we’re in good hands. You know, like, whatever happens, happens. We just have to have faith that we’re protected by our army,” Jess Santini said.
Abbott released a statement over the weekend saying, in part, “I have directed the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas National Guard to ramp up surveillance and patrols at key sites, including our vital energy facilities, ports and southern border.”
KHOU 11 reached out to the governor’s office to ask specifically about the aircraft spotted in Houston in recent days, but they only referred us to Abbott’s original statement.
Military officials in San Antonio also addressed low-flying military aircraft in the airspace. They said they were conducting training exercises near Lackland Air Force Base.
“We are aware of concerns about military aircraft flying over San Antonio, Texas, on the evening of March 2. Army units were conducting training exercises in and around Lackland Air Force Base through March 3. The exercises were conducted under strict safety protocols and efforts were made to minimize impacts to the surrounding community from the temporary increase in noise and aircraft activity. We appreciate the support of Military City, USA, and apologize for any disruption to the community,” a statement read.
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