For the seventh year in a row, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will be part of the Daytona 500 pre-race ceremonies in 2016.
Daytona International Speedway announced the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, made up of six F-16 Fighting Falcons, will participate in the flyover of the 2.5-mile track for the next two years. The jets will flyover Daytona in its “Delta” formation at the conclusion of the National Anthem, prior to the start of the 58th Daytona 500 on Feb. 21.
“We’re looking forward to flying over the Daytona 500 again this year,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Hammond, Commander and Leader for the Thunderbirds in a press release. “This event has kicked off our demonstration season for the past six years, and we’re grateful for the partnership between the Speedway and the Thunderbirds. There’s so much excitement involved with the race, and we’re honored to share the pride and professionalism of our Air Force with so many great Americans.”
The Thunderbirds, founded in 1953, are made up of 12 officers and more than 120 enlisted personnel serving in nearly 30 Air Force job specialties.
