International festival brings world to Maxwell Published March 11, 2011 By Christopher Kratzer Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- The Air War College held its annual International Culture Festival with more than a thousand people flocking to the Civil Air Patrol hangar to enjoy a Saturday afternoon filled with food and fun. The event has been held for t15 years and featured 44 different countries. It offered international students an opportunity to showcase their native countries and share their unique cultures with others. Mike Homan, the director of International Officer School, said the festival really showcased the students to Maxwell personnel and residents. "During their time here, the international officers experience a lot of American culture," Mr. Homan said. "This was started to give exposure to their cultures to the people here at Maxwell." Students wore their traditional clothing, prepared popular dishes and provided attendees with information regarding their specific countries. "It's an opportunity for people from the United States to sort of visit the country by experiencing it through the student," Mr. Homan said. "It's a really great event for those who want to take advantage of it." The International Culture Festival brought a unique international perspective to people at Maxwell. "Most people think we are a sleepy little southeastern town, but the world literally comes to Maxwell," Mr. Homan said. "Seventy-seven countries are represented between Air War College and Air Command and Staff College students." Attendees were encouraged to bring canned goods to support the Montgomery Area Food Bank. People who missed out on the festivities this week will have another opportunity to experience Maxwell's multicultural offerings. The Air Command and Staff College will be hosting their International Culture Festival 1 - 5 p.m. March 26 in the 908th hangar.