US Air Force Thunderbirds at an airshow in Smyrna, Tennessee
© Jim Zuckerman/Alamy
US Air Force Thunderbirds at an airshow in Smyrna, Tennessee
Flying in tight formation, the US Air Force Thunderbirds may suddenly break away, diving and climbing, only to reassemble moments later as they perform for audiences around the globe. The demonstration squadron has been active since 1953, though it was an operational squadron from 1917 to 1963. You may not know any of the Thunderbirds’ pilots, but if you know someone serving in any of the five branches of the military, thank them for their service: It’s Armed Forces Day.
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US Air Force Thunderbirds perform over Hampton, Virginia
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