Thunderbirds select Homestead pilot

Maj. Sean Gustafson, 93rd Fighter Squadron pilot, talks to a group of Daisy Girl Scouts from Troop 466, Palmetto Bay, Fla., about the capabilities of the F-16, March 28. On Friday, Gustafson was informed he had been selected by the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds. His selection marks the first time a member from the Air Force Reserve will fly with the elite demonstration team since its formation in 1953. The Thunderbirds, based out of Nellis AFB, Nev., perform precision aerial maneuvers demonstrating the capabilities of Air Force high performance aircraft to millions of people throughout the world. The squadron exhibits the professional qualities the Air Force develops in the people who fly, maintain and support these aircraft. Maj. Gustafson will fly the No. 4, slot aircraft during the 2009 and 2010 demonstration seasons. (U.S. Air Force photo/Nelly Veneros)