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1 MINUTE
Friday, June 20, 2008
Character Does Count: Room 7, Hanoi Hilton
By Joe Dougherty
Thirty one years later, on November 16, 2001 a nine-foot tall bronze statue of Brigadier General Robinson Risner, USAF would be dedicated on the central plaza of the United States Air Force Academy. To Bud Day (principal speaker), ...
Veterans Blog - http://asmba.typepad.com/veterans/
Friday, June 06, 2008
Report: Gates Asks For Resignations From USAF's Moseley, Wynne
Aero-News Network - FL,USA
In another development closer to home, a $50 million contract awarded in 2005 to promote the USAF Thunderbirds aerial demonstration team was called into ...
See all stories on this topic
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Mayor Keith Schroeder to present featured Memorial Day address in ...
Waukon Standard - Waukon,IA,USA
Upon entering the Air Force once again, Schroeder served four years with the USAF Thunderbirds putting on air shows around the world, including a career ...
See all stories on this topic
Star Spangled Salute lifts off, thanks to volunteers
Midwest City Sun - Midwest City,OK,USA
Tinker-serviced aircraft such as the E-3 Sentry, E-6 Mercury and KC-135 Stratotanker can be toured. The evening is topped off by Richard Hight and the USAF ...
See all stories on this topic
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Texas unit pitches in to support air show, Thunderbirds
By Dan Bailey
San Angelo Composite members give USAF fliers aerial view of area.
CAP News Online - http://www.cap.gov/visitors/news/cap_news_online/
Friday, May 09, 2008
Nellis jet with polished exhaust
F-16.net - USA
Did the engine maybe come from a Thunderbirds aircraft? If so, do the thunderbirds get they're engines like the rest of us or do they have a set? USAF F-16C ...
See all stories on this topic
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Air Amistad Features the USAF Thunderbirds at Laughlin AFB on ...
Del Rio Live! - Del Rio,TX,USA
The headliner, of course, is the team of US Air Force Thunderbirds, eight pilots who excel in both skills and nerve as well as administrative officers and ...
See all stories on this topic
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Aero-TV Chats With A USAF Thunderbird
When the USAF Thunderbirds performed at the Kennedy Space Center last fall for the World Space Expo (where ANN served as the event's primary news team), it was a coveted chance for some of the best aviators in the world to make a ...
recent posts - blip.tv (beta) - http://blip.tv
Monday, April 28, 2008
US Air Force Memorial
By Mr Sammo(Mr Sammo)
They are made to remind one of the "bomb burst" maneuver performed by the USAF Thunderbird Demonstration Team. "The three spires also represent the three core values of the Air Force - integrity first, service before self, ...
Mr Sammo - http://mrsammo.blogspot.com/
Friday, April 18, 2008
Contract bias leads Air Force to discipline 5
Arizona Republic - Phoenix,AZ,USA
... "It is my understanding that funds have flowed from HQ USAF to HQ (Air Combat Command) for this effort." The Thunderbirds contract emerged in 2005, ...
See all stories on this topic
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Las Vegas Sun
Las Vegas Sun Fri, 18 Apr 2008 1:10 PM PDT
The US Air Force Thunderbirds have fallen under investigation from the Pentagon due to a promotional $50 million contract that was found to be corrupt. | |
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Report: USAF general steered deal to pals
Moldova.org Thu, 17 Apr 2008 7:31 PM PDT
An Inspector General's report says a high-ranking U.S. Air Force general steered a contract to a company controlled by friends, The Washington Post reports.Maj. Gen. Stephen Goldfein currently serves as vice director of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.The $50 million contract was for Jumbotrons for the Air Force's Thunderbirds air show. Strategic Message Solutions was the winner, even though other ... | |
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Report: USAF general steered deal to pals
United Press International - USA
The $50 million contract was for Jumbotrons for the Air Force's Thunderbirds air show. Strategic Message Solutions was the winner, even though other ...
See all stories on this topic
USAF Gen, 2 Others Disciplined Over 'Tainted' Contract -AFP
CNNMoney.com - USA
WASHINGTON (AFP)--A US air force general and two other officers have been disciplined for their role in a "tainted" $50 million contract involving shows by ...
See all stories on this topic
Wednesday practice
By Tommy
A few clips from yesterday using the 3-step groundcast. On the first clip notice the F-16 flyby, the USAF Thunderbirds are performing this weekend and they were getting in some practice. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IgQzyBHNysA ...
Pierandsurf.com - http://pierandsurf.com/forum
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Thunderbird Pilot Talks About 'Greatest Job on the Planet'
Several years ago, Major Tony Mulhare was told he had a heart condition that would keep him from pursuing his dream of becoming a USAF Thunderbird pilot.
EAA - The Experimental Aircraft... - http://www.eaa.org
Thursday, April 10, 2008
USAF Thunderbirds Buzz Cinderella Castle And Spaceship Earth
Netcot.com - USA
The United States Air Force’s Thunderbirds did a fly by over Cinderella Castle and SpaceShip Earth this past Monday as they were going between air shows in ...
See all stories on this topic
The USAF at its BEST!
By Caroline Kaufman(Caroline Kaufman)
The USAF Thunderbirds came to visit San Angelo in mid March. It was AWESOME. I have always loved airshows... I guess that comes with being an Air Force kid. I have never seen so many people on Kickerbacher road! ...
the kaufman's - http://ryncarolinekaufman.blogspot.com/
Walt Disney World!!!
By Stephanie Smith - 831 Photography(Stephanie Smith - 831 Photography)
While we were on our way through Epcot, the USAF Thunderbirds did a fly over. I used my new super fast camera and long lens (for you photo geeks: Canon 1D MkIII and 70-200 L IS) and this is my favorite image of the Thunderbirds. ...
The Photojournalist's Soapbox! - http://stephaniesmith-831photo.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Thunderbirds Arrive
USAF Thunderbirds arriving at Sun 'N Fun.
Brightcove - 50 Newest Videos - http://www.brightcove.tv
Monday, April 07, 2008
Sun 'n Fun is HERE!
By DarbySea
The 34th Annual Sun 'n Fun Fly-in begins tomorrow! You won't want to miss this years Fly-in. The USAF Thunderbirds will be arriving this weekend. There are a variety of price ranges for all and even $5 after 5pm deal - you can't beat ...
The Year of Changes - 366 days... - http://darbysea.com
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Pontiac’s Jason Line In-Flight with the USAF Thunderbirds
By Ania
YouTube Direktvideo link LAS VEGAS, Feb. 6, 2008 — With preparation for the beginning of the new NHRA season entering its final few hours, 2006 POWERade champion Jason Line parked his Summit Racing Equipment Pro Stock Pontiac at Las ...
Aviation Video Blog - http://www.flightschoollist.com/blog
Nice videos
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
T-Bird in the Dirt
By Maddog(Maddog)
15 MAR, 2005- The USAF Thunderbirds usually do their first show of the season at Creech AFB, Nevada. It's called "Indian Springs Appreciation Day". They practice at Creech and the show is a full-up dress rehearsal and a "Thank you and ...
Lucky Puppy Aviation - http://luckyaviation.blogspot.com/
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Young Astronauts explore workshops at museum
Macon Telegraph - Macon,GA,USA
The featured speaker is Richard McSpadden Jr., a former commander and flight leader of the US Air Force's Thunderbirds flight demonstration crew. ...
See all stories on this topic
Saturday, March 29, 2008
The High Desert Home of the Fighter Pilot
The Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs (JINSA) - Washington,DC,USA
Flying slightly-modified F-16C Fighting Falcon jets, the Thunderbirds are the Air Force’s ambassadors, representing the USAF at events all over the country ...
See all stories on this topic
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Wilmington, NC’s Coastal Carolina Air Show Welcomes USAF ...
Hospitality 1st (press release) - Cape Coral,FL,USA
The Coastal Carolina Air Show is chock-full of spectacular performances by some of the best aerobatic teams: the US Air Force Thunderbirds Jet Team and the ...
See all stories on this topic
Profiles From WAI: USAF Maj. Nicole Malachowski
Aero-News Network - FL,USA
Now that her successful two year stint with the US Air Force Thunderbirds as right wing #3 is complete, Malachowski is working an interim position as Deputy ...
See all stories on this topic
The display was put together by a guy named Buzz Kaplin sometime in the 90's as a part of a transportation museum in Owatonna, MN. Mr. Kaplin died and the museum went out of business so the local airport raised money and had the display relocated to the Owatonna airport. ... it is about 70' high and clearly visible from I-35. (Thanks HabuMech)
Saturday, March 22, 2008
The first woman to fly as part of a U.S. military flight demonstration team has been honored with inclusion in the Women in Aviation International's Pioneer Hall of Fame. more...
Friday, March 21, 2008
USAF Thunderbirds Display Team
By Paul Gladman
The Air Force Thunderbirds solo pilots perform the crossover break manoeuvre during the March 11 acceptance show at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. The acceptance show marks the beginning of the 2008 show season, which includes 37 showsites ...
Flight Image of the Day - http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/aircraft-pictures/
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Face of Defense: Women’s Aviation Hall of Fame Inducts Air Force Pilot
By AmericasNewsTodayCom
3 jet for the Air Force’s Thunderbirds, Maj. Nicole Malachowski has had a hard time attaching perspective to being the first woman to fly on a service-level US military flight demonstration team. But at the San Diego Air and Space ...
AmericasNewsToday.Com /.Org -... - http://blog.americasnewstoday.com
Monday, March 10, 2008
STS-123 - Endeavour Gets a “Go”
Space Fellowship - UK
18, the US Air Force Thunderbirds flew past Launch Pad 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in commemoration of NASA’s 50th anniversary. ...
See all stories on this topic
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Thunder over NASCAR
By Dennis Collins
USAF Thunderbirds fly their F16s over the NASCAR race. The Thunderbirds, the US Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, soar over a sold-out crowd at Las Vegas Motor Speedway March 2 before the NASCAR UAW-Dodge 400 Sprint Cup Series race. ...
DailyAviator - http://www.DailyAviator.com
Monday, March 03, 2008
Free Thunderbirds F-16 Coloring Page
By Frank
Free Thunderbirds F-16 Coloring Page. Free printable coloring page of a Thunderbirds F-16 jet fighter aircraft of the United States Air Force (USAF). You’ll find many more of my coloring pages here: All coloring pages (sitemap), or ...
LetMeColor.com - http://www.letmecolor.com
Monday, February 25, 2008
STRIP SCRIBBLES
By admin
I’ll be out there on Sunday for the driver introductions, the USAF Thunderbirds flyover, the national anthem and “start your engines” festivities on Fox-TV. *New York and Florida developer Bruce Eichner arrived in Vegas with big plans ...
Vegas Luxe Life with Robin Leach - http://blogs.lasvegasmagazine.com/VegasLuxeLife
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
USAF Thunderbirds Gain Unique Perspective On Shuttle Endeavour
Aero-News Network - FL,USA
On their return home from the Daytona 500 Monday, the US Air Force Thunderbirds caught a unique glimpse of the space shuttle Endeavour on the pad for its ...
See all stories on this topic
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
USAF THUNDERBIRDS FLYOVER
By nobody@flickr.com (nascargirlfriend20)
nascargirlfriend20 posted a photo:. USAF THUNDERBIRDS FLYOVER.
- http://www.flickr.com/photos/nascarstewart20/
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
USAF Thunderbirds and entertainers
Motorsport.com - Tallahassee,Florida,USA
By Joe Jennings - Motorsport.com The USAF Thunderbirds wooed the Daytona crowd with an ear-splitting flyover prior to the start of the Daytona 500. ...
See all stories on this topic
Sunday, February 17, 2008
NASCAR-CUP: USAF Thunderbirds and entertainers capture hearts of ...
The USAF Thunderbirds wooed the Daytona crowd with an ear-splitting flyover prior to the start of the Daytona 500. During the National Anthem sang by Trisha Yearwood, six F16s rocketed by at 400 miles per hour -- a mere 18 inches to ...
Motorsport.com: news - http://www.motorsport.com/news/series.asp?S=
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Pontiac's Jason Line Pre-Flight Briefing USAF Thunderbirds
LAS VEGAS, Feb. 6, 2008 -- With preparat...
Harrison Ford - http://famouspeoplevideos.com/videos/Harrison-Ford/
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
USAF Thunderbirds will perform at Lakeland airport in April
[LAKELAND - The US Air Force Thunderbirds military jet team is coming to the Sun 'n Fun Fly-In in Lakeland this spring. The 2008 Sun 'n Fun Fly-In will be held April 8 through April 13 at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport.
PolkOnline.com - http://polkonline.com
Thursday, February 07, 2008
NHRA: Jason Line flies with the Thunderbirds
By Vidal
Jason Line Flies with the USAF Thunderbirds LAS VEGAS, Feb. 6, 2008 - With preparation for the beginning of the new NHRA season entering its final few hours, 2006 POWERade champion Jason Line parked his Summit Racing Equipment Pro Stock ...
Grand Prix Live Racing 2008 -... - http://www.grandprix-live.com
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Atlantic City Airshow
By Top 10 Editor
FEATURED: The 2006 “Thunder Over The Boardwalk” Atlantic City Airshow, The US Airforce Thunderbirds, US Navy Blue Angels, US Army Golden Knights jump team, GEICO Skytypers, USAF F-22, USAF B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber, Sean D. tucker ...
top10videotour.com Blog - http://top10videotour.com/blog
Saturday, January 26, 2008
USAF Thunderbirds At Skyfest Fairchild AFB Open House
USAF Thunderbirds At Skyfest Fairchild AFB Open House. A fast paced 2 minute music video of highlights from the USAF Fairchild AFB Open House and SkyFest, summer 2006. Includes USAF Thunderbirds. Music is licensed from Chameleon Music ...
DJ Top - http://djtop.com
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
USAF Thunderbirds Ultimate Air Show
The United States Air Force premiered a pioneering state of the art video and audio presentation at the 2007 Gathering of Mustangs and Legends air show in Columbus Ohio. This groundbreaking broadcast system tells the Air Force’s story ...
Digg / upcoming - http://digg.com/
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
USA - Air Force General Dynamics F-16C Fighting Falcon (401)
photographed at Las Vegas - Nellis AFB (LSV / KLSV), USA - Nevada on November 10, 2007 by Ben Wang. The USAF Thunderbirds getting ready to depart for their performance at Aviation Nation 2007.
Airliners.net Photo Feed: nr_of_photo... - http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?%26nr_of_photos%3D1121455
Wednesday, December 19, 2007 9:41:21 PM
Air Show 2008 is HERE!
By Karl LeRay
Returning as the premier performer for the 2008 Air Show will be the USAF Thunderbirds Demonstration Team!Other headline performers include: Debbie Gary, Greg Poe, John Melby, Marcus Paine, F-15, F-22, C-17 Demos + Heritage Flight ...
Alaska Air Show Association - http://www.alaskaairshow.org
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
United States Air Force Thunderbirds Soar Into 2008
United States Air Force Thunderbirds Soar Into 2008.
Hospitality Newsmaker Alert - http://hospitality-1st.com/PressNews/
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
US Air Force Thunderbirds flyover to be part of historic 50th ...
Branford News - FL, United States
The world-renowned "Thunderbirds" - the US Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron - will provide race fans with an aerial spectacle during the National Anthem ...
Monday, October 08, 2007
Reunion News and Events
News and Events Registration Form
Thursday, September 27, 2007 7:27:34 PM
Thank you very much for your patience.
Reunion Chair
Monday, September 24, 2007
Note from the Reunion Chair....
"the darned invitations are late. 
Please check out the registration form
on our home page and feel free to fill it out and send to Doris Wilson at your convenience.
Hotel, air and event information is available here or at www.tbaa.org.
We greatly appreciate your patience.
Send To....
Doris "Doe" Wilson
7661 Angel Crest Circle
Las Vegas, Nevada 89117
Let us know if you have any questions....
Monday, August 20, 2007
Here is the information concerning Thunderbird #1, Maj. Gen. Richard
"Smokey" Catledge's widow, contributions and internment ceremony:
You may contact Linda Catledge at her home address:
For more information, click here.
In lieu of floral arrangements, Linda has asked that you consider one of
the three options below, contributing in Smokey's name:
1)
The Intrepid Heroes Fund
One Intrepid Square
West 46th St. and 12th Avenue
New York, NY 10036
1-800-340-HERO
http://www.fallenheroesfund.org/
2)
The Humane Society in your area
3)
Your favorite charity, again designating the contribution in Smokey's memory
The memorial service and internment of ashes will take place at Arlington
National Cementery on October 29, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. For those of you attending,
please plan to assemble at the entrance to Arlington no later than 12:30
p.m. The service will begin at 1 p.m. Linda has requested a missing-man
flyby through Eglin AFB Casualty Affairs.
Following the memorial service, Linda will host a reception at the Raddison
Hotel Reagan National Airport, 2020 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington,
VA.
If you plan to attend the memorial service and reception, please RSVP by
contacting Doris Wilson, doewilson@aol.com or by calling (702) 871-7197 by October 12, 2007.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Steven T. Hebert
SMS
NCOIC Corrosion Control 82-85
Deceased 8-14-07
Widow: Mrs. Lori Hebert
Services:
Thursday, 16 August, 6-8 PM
Viewing at Sunset Memorial Park and Funeral Home,
1701 Austin Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78218
210-828-2811
Friday, 17 August, Funeral 0900
at Sunset with interment to follow at Ft. Sam Houston
Reception following the funeral at Don and Melinda McBride's home
Monday, August 13, 2007 4:58:40 PM
From: Jim Jannette
Sent: Monday, August 13, 2007 10:35 AM
It is with great sadness that I report to you that our beloved first leader and
friend Smokey died yesterday from complications related to pneumonia. As
details become known, we will share them with you. Please keep Smokey,
his wife and family in your thoughts and prayers.
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MAJOR GENERAL RICHARD C. CATLEDGE
Retired Sep. 1, 1973.
Maj. Gen. Richard C. Catledge is commander of the U.S. Air Force Tactical Air Warfare Center, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.
General Catledge, born in Shawnee, Okla., entered flight training as an aviation cadet in March 1942 at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. In March 1943, he was commissioned a second lieutenant and received his pilot wings.
In May 1943, he was assigned to the 1st Fighter Group in North Africa and flew combat missions in P-38 aircraft.
From 1944 through May 1953, his principal duties were those of combat fighter pilot, flight commander, group operations officer and squadron commander.
From May 1953 through August 1956, as a major, he became the first commander and leader of the U.S. Air Force Aerial Demonstration Team, the Thunderbirds, of worldwide fame, and later was director of inspection for Headquarters Crew Training Air Force.
He then assumed command of the 9th Fighter Bomber Squadron at Komaki Air Base, Japan.
General Catledge was chief, Tactical Evaluation Branch, Fifth Air Force, Fuchu Air Station, Japan, from March 1957 to July 1959.
In August 1959, he returned to the United States, where he attended the Naval War College, Newport, R.I. At the completion of his Naval War College Training, General Catledge was assigned to Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, D.C. While in Washington he served in various positions with the Directorate of Operations, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Plans until August 1964.
In that year, General Catledge again went to Europe. This time he was assigned to the 50th Tactical Fighter Wing, Hahn Air Base, Germany, where he first served as deputy commander for operations and later as wing vice commander, flying F-100 aircraft.
In November 1966, General Catledge was assigned as commander of the 3d Tactical Fighter Wing at Bien Hoa Air Base, Republic of Vietnam. The wing had F-100, F-5, and A-37 aircraft assigned, and he flew a total of 141 combat missions in these aircraft.
General Catledge was assigned as wing commander at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., in November 1967. He moved to the inspector general's slot at Tactical Air Command in July 1969, then assumed the position of deputy chief of staff, requirements, in February 1970.
He is a command pilot with 6,500 hours of flying time. His military decorations include the Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with 11 oak leaf clusters, Army Commendation Medal, Purple Heart, Distinguished Unit Citation Emblem with two oak leaf clusters, Presidential Unit Citation Emblem, and Air Force Outstanding Unit Award Ribbon with oak leaf cluster.
He was promoted to the temporary grade of major general effective Aug. 1, 1971, with date of rank July 1, 1967.
(Current as of Dec. 1, 1971)
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Monday, April 16, 2007
For your information.
Maudene Kanaga, wife of Lt. Col. Robert L. Kanaga, USAF (Ret.), 1953-54 Slot, passed away April 12, 2007.
Visitation April 17, 2007, 6:00 - 8:00 PM,
Bunker's Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ
Services April 18, 2007, 11:00 a.m.
Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints
1415 E. Southern Avenue, Mesa AZ
Home address: 1645 E. Grove Avenue, Mesa, AZ 85204
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Sad To Report...
It is with deep regret that we have just received word from Joe Ortiz's
son that Joe passed away this afternoon at about 2:45 pm at North Vista
Hospital in North Las Vegas . Joe fought a valiant fight against his
cancer . His son will let us know when there is more information .
John and Cindy Eastwood
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Most Clicked Links from our web site....
http://www.virtualthunderbirds.com/ 957
http://www.airforce.com/thunderbirds/ 730
http://www.thunderbirdsalumni.com/pdffiles/TNAM07.pdf 638
Interesting 
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Here's a link to a couple videos at AIRSHOWBUZZ.com. First one is the team recently and the second one is a video in Chris Patterakis's memory. The video with Chris is very nicely done.
Team
Chris Patterakis
Monday, March 12, 2007
The Heritage Thunderbird Foundation is the official fund-raising arm of the Thunderbirds Alumni Association and the owner of the sculpture known as Heritage Thunderbird—“These Names are Mine!” (TNAM!) has been updated.
www.nellis.af.mil/thunderbirds
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United States Air Force Thunderbirds Soar Into 2007
Air Show Schedule Begins March 24 and Runs Through November 11
United States Air Force Thunderbirds Soar Into 2007Nellis Air Force Base, NV – March 2007 – The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, “Thunderbirds,” has announced its air show schedule for 2007. The team is scheduled to perform more than 68 shows in 21 states and nine European countries.
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2007 Schedule|
“The entire team is excited to announce our schedule for 2007,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Robbins, Thunderbird No. 1, commander and leader. “The Thunderbirds’ motto is ‘Ambassadors in Blue’ ... in the truest sense of those words this year we’ll be able to bring the message of every hard-working Airman to thousands of people around the world.”
The second-year commander said his team is ready to take the Airman’s story abroad. “We are well aware this is a time of conflict for our nation, yet it is important to take the time to display the true nature of our armed forces, both to allies and foes,” Colonel Robbins said. “We look forward to illustrating the dedication, commitment and humility our Airmen display in their jobs each day, both at home and overseas.”
The Thunderbirds will also commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Air Force throughout their 2007 season.
“We are representing six decades of air dominance this year,” Colonel Robbins said. “The Air Force and Thunderbirds of today uphold the pride and professionalism that millions of Airmen have displayed for 60 years.”
The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron is an Air Combat Command unit composed of eight pilots (including six demonstration pilots), four support officers, four civilians and about 110 enlisted people performing in more than 29 Air Force specialties.
The 2007 team includes the Air Force’s first female jet demonstration pilot, Maj. Nicole Malachowski, Thunderbird No. 3, right wing, in her second year, and the Thunderbirds’ first female solo pilot, Maj. Samantha Weeks, Thunderbird No. 6, opposing solo, in her first season with the team.
The remaining pilots for the 2007 season include: Maj. Chris Austin, Thunderbird No. 2, left wing; Maj. Scott Poteet, Thunderbird No. 4, slot; and Maj. Ed Casey, Thunderbird No. 5, lead solo.
Rounding out the list of officers are: Maj. Rob Skelton, Thunderbird No. 7, operations officer; Maj. Tad Clark, Thunderbird No. 8, advance pilot/narrator; Maj. (Dr.) Dan Mirski, Thunderbird No. 9, flight surgeon; Capt. Amy Glisson, Thunderbird No. 10, executive officer; Capt. Charles Ploetz, Thunderbird No. 11, maintenance officer; and Capt. Elizabeth Kreft, Thunderbird No. 12, public affairs officer.
A Thunderbirds’ aerial demonstration is a mix of formation flying and solo routines. The pilots perform approximately 40 maneuvers in a demonstration. The entire show, including ground and air, runs about one hour. The air show season lasts from March to November, with the winter months used to train new members.
Contact:
Capt. Elizabeth Kreft
Thunderbird Public Affairs
702-652-6776
E-mail
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2007 Performance Schedule
(event dates subject to change/cancellation)
March
24-25 Luke AFB, AZ
31 Pt. Mugu, NBVC, CA
April
1 Pt. Mugu, NBVC, CA
14-15 Eglin AFB, FL
21-22 Barksdale AFB, LA
28-29 Langley AFB, VA
May
5-6 Ft Lauderdale, FL
12-13 McGuire AFB, NJ
19-20 Andrews AFB, MD
26-27 Wantagh (Jones Beach), NY
30 U.S. Air Force Academy, CO (Invitation Only)
June
2-3 Davenport, IA
9-10 Sacramento, CA
16-17 Pittsburgh
23-24 Galway, Ireland
26 Krzesiny AB, Poland
28 Bucharest, Romania
30 Ankara, Turkey
July
1 Graf Ignatievo, Bulgaria
4 Aviano AB, Italy
7-8 Evreux Field, France
14-15 RAF Fairford, UK
25 Cheyenne, WY
28-29 Dayton, OH |
August
11-12 Niagara Falls, NY
15 Atlantic City, NJ
18-19 Chicago, IL
25-26 Otis ANGB, MA
September
1-3 Cleveland
8 Minot AFB, ND
15 Hickam AFB, Hawaii
22-23 El Paso, TX
29-30 Columbus, OH
October
6-7 Pope AFB, NC
13-14 Miramar MCAS, CA
20-21 Moody AFB, GA
27-28 New Orleans
November
3-4 NASA Cape Canaveral, FL
10-11 Nellis AFB, NV
End of Schedule |
|If you are interested in requesting the Thunderbirds perform at your Airshow click here to learn more. “Please be sure your DD Form 2535 is completed and on file at AF/PA no later than 1 August of the year prior to your show. This is necessary due to the scheduling and approval process of the Thunderbirds.” |
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
6:05:31 AM
Nice link to MSNBC video
Saturday, October 28, 2006 11:37:19 PM
Joe Ortiz had stroke !!!!!!!!!
Please see message .here. for further information
Saturday, October 28, 2006 10:17:37 AM
Just recieved this email from Kris and YOU NEED TO CHECK THIS OUT! Very nicely done! I don't have a clue as to how they do it even though I bought the game just to try it out. Must be something about the joystick????
Dear Larry,
Just wanted to send you a heads up. The Virtual Thunderbirds have just put out a new trailer for the upcoming FULL LENGTH virtual High Show movie, titled: "Smoke On", coming November 23, 2006. If you're out in Las Vegas for Aviation Nation you may also catch this movie in a real theater, Thrusday, November 9. This night only.
Please spread the word about this premiere and let me know if any of you (incl. other alumni) would like to come see it. You're all cordially invited! The theater can hold 165 people and we already have a few alumni/honorary Tbirds coming, but lots of empty seats to fill! Bring or tell anyone you think would be interested to come! I'm sure we all have lots in common to talk about besides watching the movie...
Sincerely,
Kris Langdell
The Virtual Thunderbirds, LLC
Tuesday, August 15, 2006 9:09:52 PM
Link To Article from the Nellis AFB “BULLSEYE“
Col Pete "Abner" McCaffrey (93-94)
Thanks to SarahLeta
Tuesday, August 15, 2006 11:43:48 AM
Arctic Warrior becomes Thunderbird
By Tech. Sgt. Mike Edwards
3rd WG/PA
June 12, 2006 -- When a six year-old little girl decided she wanted to become an Air
Force pilot when she grew up, little did she realize that not only would her dreams
come true, but she would also be chosen to fly for one of the world's premier
aircraft demonstration teams.
Fast forward 24 years to the present day and that is just what happened for Capt.
Samantha Weeks, an F-15C pilot from the 12th Fighter Squadron, who was one of just
three pilots recently selected to fly with the United States Air Force Thunderbirds.
"What a great opportunity to serve the Air Force in such a capacity," she said. "I
feel both honored and humbled at the same time."
While some might think pilots might try to volunteer to become a Thunderbird simply
for the prestige, Capt. Weeks says she did it for different reasons.
"The Air Force has given me so much for the past 30 years and I wanted a chance to
give back," she said. "With my dad serving 27 years as an enlisted member in the
maintenance career field, I grew up in the Air Force and the Air Force has been very
good to me. Now I have the opportunity to give back."
While the application process to become a pilot with the Thunderbirds is lengthy, it
is also highly competitive. Pilots interested in applying must submit a package to a
board for review. This year the board selected 10 semi-finalists. From this group,
only five made it to the final round. In the last stage, only three of the five were
selected to be a member of the 2007-2008 Thunderbird Team.
However, getting selected is just the first step; pilots must be able to master the
skills necessary to fly the aircraft used by the Thunderbirds.
The Thunderbirds fly F-16 Viper where Capt Weeks flies the F-15C Eagle.
"One of the biggest differences is that I'm going from a two-engine fighter to a
single-engine fighter" she said. Capt Weeks will also incur two months of training
at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. to transition to fly the F-16, and understand the
basic tactical employment of a different aircraft.
After completing her training at Luke, she will travel to Nellis AFB, Nev. and spend
approximately three months learning the Thunderbirds aerial demonstration show
before starting the 2007 show season in March. "This is a great honor and I am
excited at the chance to fly for the Thunderbirds and represent the men and women in
the Air Force serving all over the world."
Friday, July 14, 2006
Retired Air Force Col. John F. Groom, who commanded the Thunderbirds aerial demonstration team at Nellis Air Force Base in 1962 and later served as an airstrike adviser to Army Gen. William Westmoreland in Vietnam, died Tuesday in Las Vegas. He was 87.
Newspaper Article
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Thursday, June 08, 2006 11:43:52 AM
Thursday, June 8, 2006 |
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Two Germany-based officers joining Thunderbirds
By Scott Schonauer, Stars and Stripes
European edition, Thursday, June 8, 2006
KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany — Two Germany-based Air Force officers have been named to next year’s Thunderbirds air demonstration squadron, the team announced earlier this week.
Maj. Robert Skelton, who is assigned to U.S. Air Forces in Europe headquarters at Ramstein Air Base, will be the 2007 team’s operations officer. He will be second in command for the squadron.
Capt. Charles Ploetz of the 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Spangdahlem Air Base has been selected to be the team’s maintenance officer.
The squadron announced its new officers for the 2007 season on Tuesday. Next year will be the team’s 54th.
The six-plane aerial demonstration squadron performs at air shows throughout the world and includes eight pilots, four support officers and about 120 active-duty, Air National Guard and Reserve enlisted personnel.
Also joining the team will be its second female pilot, Capt. Samantha Weeks of the 12th Fighter Squadron at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska. She will join Maj. Nicole Malachowski, who was named the team’s first female pilot in history last year.
Malachowski was previously a member of the 494th Fighter Squadron at RAF Lakenheath, England.
Other new officers include: Maj. Chris Austin from the 57th Wing at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., who will serve at the wing position; Maj. William Poteet of the Nellis-based 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, slot pilot position; Capt. Amy Glisson, based at Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, D.C., executive officer; and Capt. Elizabeth Kreft, assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing at Langley Air Force Base, Va., public affairs officer. |
© 2006 Stars and Stripes. All Rights Reserved.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
By popular demand, “One Minute“ is back! 
May 28th 2006
Buck Pattillo wrote:
Just a little something I would like to pass on
to all of you. Something I would like you to join
me in doing on May 29, 2006, Memorial Day.
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