Thunderbirds

The kids were lucky enough to get a special tour at Nellis Air Force Base of the Thunderbirds museum by our friend and former Chief of the Thunderbirds, Tom!

We first watched the planes taxi past us on the runway and learned about the different type of planes and what they are used for before heading into the museum. Inside was a large collection of memorabilia, mostly donated to the Thunderbirds. Elaborate paintings, photos, and gear fill the walls with history.

They especially loved sitting in the cockpit and pretending they were flying. Asher was disappointed that the tour didn't include an ACTUAL flight! haha!

I am still amazed that the team flies as close as 18 inches from each other and does so by watching the lead plane! Absolutely incredible! There have been tragedies, like in the '80s when the lead plane was slightly off and all 4 planes followed him into the ground. After that, they decided to disband the team, however Gen. Creech stepped in, made some major changes and put his retirement on the line in order to save the Thunderbirds. They are based in Las Vegas and fly shows all over the world!

After our tour we sat outside and watched planes flying in formation above us for awhile. Asher was pretty impressed to see them flying sideways and upside down. Can't wait to take him to his next airshow!

They were loud....

Asher wanted his picture taken next to this humvee.

We had a great time and learned a lot. Thanks Tom!