Thunderbirds To Fly Over Colorado In Honor Of Essential Workers

Denver CO

17 April, 2020

5:56 PM

Description

F-16 Fighting Falcons will fly out of Nevada's Nellis Air Force Base Saturday and make their way over Colorado cities to salute essential workers amid the new coronavirus pandemic. The Thunderbirds squadron flyovers will occur around 12:50 p.m., after the U.S. Air Force Academy commencement flyover in Colorado Springs. Lt. Col. John Caldwell, the Thunderbirds commander and leader, said the squadron is "thrilled to continue on a tradition of culminating the Air Force Academy graduation and welcoming [its] newest second lieutenants." "While the coronavirus pandemic has curtailed many of the celebrations that graduating cadets usually enjoy, we are proud to provide this one defining moment for these young American's lives as they become officers in the world's greatest Air Force." Don't miss the latest coronavirus updates from health and government officials in Colorado. Sign up for free Patch news alerts and newsletters for what you need to know daily. The flyovers, which will last around an hour, will honor healthcare workers, first responders, military members and other essential personnel who are working on the front lines to combat the coronavirus. "Our team is honored to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the countless Coloradans working every day to support their communities during this difficult time in our nation," Caldwell said. "We want Coloradans to look up from their homes and enjoy the display of American resolve and pride while keeping frontline responders in their hearts." Thunderbirds' flight path will bring them over Greeley, Windsor, Fort Collins, Loveland, Longmont, Boulder, metro Denver, Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado Springs, Fort Carson and Pueblo. Spectators along the flight path can expect a few seconds of jet noise as six high-performance fighter aircraft fly close in precise formation. Coloradans will be able to see the flyovers from their homes amid the stay-at-home order, and are asked to maintain all social distancing guidelines during the event. Spectators should also refrain from traveling to landmarks, hospitals and gathering in large groups to view the flyovers, commanders said. The Thunderbirds encourage viewers to tag the team on social media in photos and videos of their formation with the hashtag #AFThunderbirds and #AFSalutes. Coronavirus Live Colorado Updates Read more: Colorado Residents: Check Your Stimulus Payment Status Colorado Coronavirus: 'Essential' Businesses, Services List Support Resources For Small Businesses In Colorado Coronavirus: Health Care For Uninsured In Colorado Face Masks And Coronavirus: 5 Things To Know