Three members from the U.S. Air Force’s air demonstration team will travel through Europe to discuss 100 years of flight during an Extreme Summer visit throughout August.
Senior Master Sgt. Danny L. Smith, an aircraft maintenance supervisor; Staff Sgt. Darin J. Mauzy, a tactical avionics specialist; and Staff Sgt. Kati A. Garcia, a public affairs journeyman, are members of the Air Force Thunderbirds, which is celebrating its 50th year in 2003.
They will begin their Extreme Summer tour in Lajes Field, Portugal, on Wednesday.
The Thunderbirds were activated on May 25, 1953. During its time, the team has flown the F-84G, F-84F, F100C, F105B, F-100D, F-4E, T38A, F-16A and F-16C aircraft in their demonstrations.
The Thunderbirds have been stationed at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., since 1956, but began at Luke Air Base, Ariz., an area rich in American Indian lore, which helped the group select its name.
To register for the Extreme Summer program, go to www.extremesummer.com and complete the registration form.
All active-duty military, Department of Defense civilians and family members older than 8 can participate in the program. There are four competition categories: youth 8-12; teens 13-18; enlisted grades E-1 to E-5 and their spouses; E-6 to E9, all officers, civilians, and their spouses.
For information, call Mandy Smith-Nethercott at DSN 496-7929 or civilian (49) 06302-677929.
Upcoming dates
Wednesday: Lajes Field, Portugal
Friday: RAF Alconbury, United Kingdom
Saturday: RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom
Monday, Aug. 26: Ramstein Air Base, Germany
Aug. 27: Rhein-Main Air Base, Germany
Aug. 28: Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany
