Thunderbirds ready for 57th season Published March 16, 2010 By Airman Cynthia A. Haughton 99th Air Base Wing Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" flew their acceptance show here March 11 and were approved by Gen. William M. Fraser III, commander of Air Combat Command, to start their 2010 show season. "The acceptance show is the culmination of the hard work and dedication by our entire team throughout the training season -- from November to March," said Lt. Col. Case Cunningham, who is beginning his first year as the Thunderbirds commander/leader. "It is an opportunity for us to demonstrate a safe air show for General Fraser as we prepare for the 2010 air show season." The ground and air show lasted one hour. Immediately after, General Fraser greeted the Thunderbird officers on the flightline, and later addressed the entire Thunderbirds squadron in the unit's auditorium. "The Thunderbirds are absolutely looking forward to the 2010 season and the opportunity to represent nearly 700,000 Airmen," said Capt. Jason McCree, public affairs officer for the Thunderbirds. The Thunderbirds are scheduled to fly 73 shows throughout the U.S. and Canada, and will be on the road approximately 250 days from March to November. Their season ends with their homecoming show at Nellis' Open House in November.
