The Mighty Wings of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds

The Mighty Wings of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds

by Donna Teresa, Homefront Journal

The California International Air Show once again will take flight this weekend in Salinas. This great, annual event has played host to the best the air has to offer — such as the Navy Blue Angels and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds.

The air show has been a terrific family event that raises much needed funds for many local charities. This year, the Central Coast welcomes the return of the Air Force Thunderbirds.

Celebrating 55 years of service here in the United States and abroad, the Thunderbirds represent the more than 500,000 men and women all over the world serving this country in the air and on the ground. Last year, the Air Force celebrated its 60th Anniversary.

The Thunderbird demonstration team was first activated June 1, 1953 as the 3600th Air Demonstration Team at the Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.

The Thunderbird name was inspired by the American Indian culture that can be felt throughout the Southwest and the legend of the great bird of thunder continues today.

Performing the most complex feats of aerobatic maneuvers, the team thrills audiences everywhere with their fearless flying. It’s quite an extraordinary sight to behold. The red, white and blue colors in unison are a brilliant picture. The bird logo emphasizes the power you feel when you hear that thunderous noise when they fly by.

The Thunderbirds also have served their country in time of war.

Major Nicole Malachowski was the first woman pilot to be selected to join the Thunderbirds, performing for the first time in 2006. Following her travels with the Thunderbirds, she accepted a position in Washington, D.C. representing the Air Force. She also served a four month deployment supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. The recipient of many distinctions and honors, this year, she was inducted to the Women in Aviation, International and Pioneer Hall of Fame. Nicole helped open the door for more women pilots to serve with the Thunderbird team.

So, when you hear that booming thunder overhead, take a second look up in the sky, because chances are that’s not just any bird up above, it’s the Air Force Thunderbirds and we thank each and every one of them who have served this country and have donated their time to raise money at air shows throughout the United States.

Let us also not forget the tireless ground crew who maintain the aircraft and keep these airmen and -women flying. It takes many people to allow these pilots to fly and they put in many hours to ensure their safety each and every day.

These American ambassadors in blue continue their tradition of professionalism and spreading goodwill wherever their travels take them.

There is one verse of the Air Force song that reminds me of the Thunderbirds whenever I hear it played, and I think it must have been fate that this legendary group of fliers would be created many years later. "Off we go into the wild blue yonder, climbing high into the sky. Here they come zooming to meet our thunder."

If you have a chance, take the opportunity to see them perform. They don’t come around often and you’ll be sorry if you miss seeing them. I’d like to extend a big thank you to all who have served in the Air Force through the years. Our airmen and women have bravely protected this nation through many conflicts and they continue to do so today and because "Hey, nothing can stop the U.S. Air Force!"

Donna Teresa can be reached at donnateresa@sbcglobal.net.Homefront Journal Donna Teresa writes about the Air Force Thunderbirds, performing at the California International Air Show in Salinas this weekend. www.montereyherald.com

ORIGINAL STORY: http://www.montereyherald.com/donnateresa/ci_10536315?source=veteranstoday