The USAF Thunderbirds form into a five-ship formation during the Wings Over Columbus 2022 Airshow March 25, 2022, on Columbus Air Force Base, MS. On May 25, 1953, just six years after the U.S. Air Force became its own branch of service, the Thunderbirds were born as the Air Force’s official air demonstration team. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jake Jacobsen)
A USAF Thunderbird aircraft banks upward during the Wings Over Columbus 2022 Airshow March 25, 2022, on Columbus Air Force Base, MS. The WOC22 airshow was a free event for military and civilians to come enjoy the performance of aerial demos. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jake Jacobsen)
The USAF Thunderbird aircraft performers aerial maneuvers during the Wings Over Columbus 2022 Airshow March 25, 2022, on Columbus Air Force Base, MS. Eight officers serve as the Thunderbirds highly experienced pilots, and four serve in critical roles from medical support to public affairs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jake Jacobsen)