Thunderbirds 'Hometown Hero' flight recipient to be announced April 6

Published April 3, 2012
By 010412

DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Base officials will announce Friday April 6 the name of the "Hometown Hero" who will receive an orientation flight with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds as part of 'Thunder and Lightning over Arizona' open house, formerly referred to as 'Arizona and Aerospace Days' air show, here April 14-15.

The announcement will be made on base, in-person, at 8:30 a.m. April 6.

The selectee will receive the unique experience of flying in the back seat of one of the Thunderbirds' F-16 Fighting Falcon jets while the pilot demonstrates the handling and speed of the aircraft.

The opportunity was provided by the Thunderbirds to highlight an individual from Pima County who has significantly given of themselves to better the local community.

This year's hero was nominated for their heroic acts during the Jan. 8, 2011 Tucson shootings.

Media interested in attending the announcement MUST RSVP to the 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office at 228-3406 no later than 2:30 p.m. Monday, April 2.

Media who will attend are required to provide date of birth, social security number, and driver license number as part of the new Department of Defense base access procedures.

Showtime at the Craycroft Gate Visitors' Center will be 7:45 a.m. Friday, April 6.