A Flight to Remember

I love my country.  And I truly appreciate all those who ever served or continue to serve in the military.  Those are just a few reasons why I love the Fourth of July.  Every time I see the American flag and hear the Star Spangled Banner, which happened hundreds of times over the course of my television career --especially during my first 14 years as a sportscaster-- I feel my throat start to tighten up. 

While I never served, I am the grandson of a World War II veteran and the son-in-law of a Vietnam veteran.  I have had personal glimpses of what life is like in the service.  My most memorable experience was a big-time eye opener in July of 2003.  The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds were on a nationwide tour celebrating their 50th year of existence.  They brought their squadron of $30 million General Dynamics F-16 Flying Falcons to Missoula to headline an air show.  (By the way, my father-in-law worked at General Dynamics.)  

Before we continue, how about a little Thunderbirds 101 tutorial.  The Air Force designated its first demonstration team in 1953.  The unit soon adopted the name Thunderbirds thanks, in part, to the Indian culture and forklore.  Indian legend speaks of the thunderbird with great fear and respect.  The types of planes flown by the Thunderbirds changed numerous times over the years as they performed all across the United States and around the world before millions of people.  This year, the Thunderbirds will perform 58 times across the United States and Europe.             

Back to my flight.  My news director said there was an opportunity to fly with one of the pilots and asked if I was interested.  I jumped at the chance.  The photos above and the video below pretty much tell the rest of the story.  What a thrill!  Would I do it again?  You bet I would.  Thanks to the Thunderbirds, all our Armed Forces, our veterans and their families.  Happy 4th of July.