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Thunderbirds announce 2014 performance at Youngstown

  • Published
  • By Eric M. White
  • 910th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio --  The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds aerial demonstration team, America's Ambassadors in Blue, have announced their 2014 show schedule to include performances here, May 17-18, as the headline act at the 2014 Thunder Over the Valley Air Show.

Originally planned for Summer 2014, Youngstown ARS leadership decided to adopt the May 17-18 date in order to accommodate the possibility of a Thunderbirds appearance. After the cancellation of the 2013 show season by both the U.S Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds due to sequestration, both jet teams are back to flying in 2014 with limited show seasons.

The 910th Airlift Wing at Youngstown has been planning a 2014 air show and open house since late 2012, and is still in the approval process, but is excited at the prospect of hosting the world's premier aerial jet demonstration team in 2014.

"We are proud to have the opportunity to welcome the Thunderbirds to Youngstown and are excited for the opportunity to show off our world-class facilities and personnel," said U.S. Air Force Reserve Colonel James D. Dignan, 910th Airlift Wing commander.

The 2009 Thunder Over the Valley air show, which also featured the Thunderbirds, provided a chance for the 910th Airlift Wing to demonstrate its mission and display Air Force capabilities for tens of thousands of spectators.

The Thunderbirds announced their schedule Dec. 5 at the International Council of Air Shows in Las Vegas.