There's an influx of military in the Valley this week with more than 600 U.S. Marines.
It's Marine Week, and that means there are several events planned around the Valley, many that are hands-on activities.
Click here for a schedule of events.
Jim Thomas watched his son, a pilot, perform in Glendale on Friday afternoon, which was one of the many events planned throughout the weekend.
"He's living a dream," Thomas said. "He grew up always wanting to be like his grandpa, being a pilot."
The University of Phoenix Stadium became a landing zone for military aircraft as soldiers showed off their skills and military equipment.
Christina Felshaw attended, her husband is a Marine, and said the sounds of the jets and helicopters is a moving display.
"To me, it’s the sound of freedom," Felshaw said. "These guys are out here protecting us every single day."
The City of Glendale said it has received complaints about noise from low flying aircraft.
A city spokesperson said calls were coming into various dispatch centers and to city hall.
Glendale said it was proactive in letting everyone in the area know about the event. The city sent out mailers to residents and put out alerts on social media.
“It’s fun that Arizona gets to see a little bit of the Marine Corps,” lance corporal Calvin Glover said.
Glover is a 2013 Gilbert High School graduate. He and lance corporal Dalton Heer from Parker are members of the Silent Drill Platoon in Washington D.C. They both still have family in the area.
“They’re pretty excited and like to see me perform,” Heer said.
Both will perform at professional sporting events this weekend, a privilege that can soften even the hardest exterior.
“I grew up a Cardinals fan," Glover said.
Marine Week wraps up Sunday in the Valley.
