Thunder on the Bay
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds precision flying team thrilled more than 142,000 residents and visitors at Biloxi’s Keesler Air Force Base over the April 4-5 weekend.
The free open house and air show, dubbed Thunder on the Bay, was an “amazing success” according to Col. Chris Valle, 81st Training Wing Commander, who added that, “The event is the culmination of a year’s energy and effort. It’s been fun to watch our Gulf Coast family come to Keesler and share our Air Force mission.”
A variety of aircraft was runway accessible, while others – both vintage and new, fast and faster, small, big and really big – performed flight demonstrations and fly-bys. Each added a distinctive note to the Thunder on the Bay.
Also earning the crowd’s respect and applause were the U.S. Army’s famed Golden Knights and the U.S. Air Force Academy premier Wings of Blue parachute teams.
Thunder on the Bay was the second show of the year for the Thunderbirds who only appear at about 20 locations annually.
For more information on Keesler Air Force Base, visit www.keesler.af.mil.
