Gasior, chairman of the Central Oregon Air Show Board of Directors. "It is
quite a thrill to have the Thunderbirds in Redmond for next year's
performance."
The Thunderbirds squadron, which was formed in 1953, is an Air Combat Command
unit composed of eight pilots. A Thunderbird air demonstration is a mix of six
aircraft, performing formation flying and solo routines. The four-aircraft
diamond formation demonstrates the training and precision of Air Force pilots,
while the solos highlight the maximum capabilities of the F-16 Fighting
Falcon.
The committee is in the process of finalizing an agreement with the other acts
that will appear in the show.
"We plan to have approximately seven acts in all, including acrobatic pilots
and parachutists," said Gasior. "We are hoping to announce those soon."
The Central Oregon Air Show is one of the region's biggest events. Next year it
is expected to bring more than 40,000 people to Robert's Field.
A volunteer board organizes the non-profit event every other year to raise
funds for local charities. Next year's performance will benefit the Ronald
McDonald House, a facility dedicated to providing accommodations for families
of seriously ill children.
