Wings Over Whiteman

Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds streak over the crowd at the 2010 Wings Over Whiteman Air Show and Open House, Sept. 18. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds performed twice for spectators in attendance. Several different types of military and civilian aircraft were on display during the two-day event for all in attendance to see to include the Thunderbirds and the U.S. Army Golden Knights. More than 75,000 people attended the event. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kenny Holston) (Released)

Thunderbirds entertain crowds at WOW

Published Sept. 22, 2010
By Airman 1st Class Cody H. Ramirez
509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- A dark shadow flies overhead, an intense rumble follows behind seconds later. As the shadow moves across the sky it gains a silver tint with red and blue paint. The Thunderbird F-16C Fighting Falcon demonstrated aerial superiority at 2010 Wings Over Whiteman Air Show and Open House here.

The Thunderbirds provided entertainment to central Missouri natives and travelers from around the world, Sept. 18 and 19, making the 509th Bomb Wing the third wing under Air Force Global Strike Command to host the Thunderbirds this season.

Lt. Col. Case Cunningham, U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron commander, said he was proud to be supporting the great men and women of Whiteman, central Missouri and its surrounding communities.

"I'm so glad I came out today." Said Angie Stamper, a Liberty, Mo., resident. "I will never forget this day. The show was unbelievable. It's moments like this that make me truly proud to be an American.

The team of 12 officers and 120 enlisted Air Force members represent the pride, precision and professionalism of all Airmen. From March to November each year, the Thunderbirds support Air Force recruiting, reinforce public confidence in the Air Force; strengthen morale and support community and international relations.

Supporting Total Force Integration, one of the team pilots, Maj. Sean Gustafson was a Traditional Reservist before joining. This is his second year assigned active duty to the team. The most eligible for the job are taken whether active duty, guard or reserve.

The Thunderbirds hour-long performance consists of nearly 30 maneuvers on both the ground and in the air.

Eight shows remain this season, including demonstrations at their home base Nov. 13 and 14, marking the end for the year.