F-16 Fighting Falcon News

April 25, 2009 (by SSgt. Misty D. Slater) - February 6 was just another day on the job for Virginia State Police Trooper Kurt Johnson until he happened upon a serious car accident. A mother was screaming for the Trooper to rescue her child, who was in her car seat trapped under the dashboard.
Trooper Johnson crawled into the car and saved the child, who turned 3 that day. The child suffered two broken legs and smoke inhalation. Trooper Johnson was also treated and released for smoke inhalation.

He would probably tell you he was just doing his job, but his actions impressed not only his superiors but the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, who chose Johnson to be a Thunderbird for a day.

"His conduct on that night reflects the highest traditions of the Virginia State Police," said Trooper Jean-Paul Koushel, VSP area commander of the Eastern Shore. "He was very brave going into that burning car."

That bravery earned him the coveted spot in an F-16 Falcon, chosen from dozens of area applicants for the team's Hometown Hero program, designed to recognize extraordinary acts by everyday Americans.

"Our Hometown Hero flight program is a way we salute everyday Americans for their extraordinary contributions to their neighborhoods, communities and country," said Capt. Jason McCree, Thunderbirds Public Affairs Officer.

Before Trooper Johnson could fly with the Thunderbirds, he had to have a medical evaluation and life support training. Maj. Tony Mulhare, the Thunderbirds advanced pilot and narrator, talked him through what to expect during the flight. Now he was ready to fly.

"He has been so excited (about the flight); that's all he has talked about every day," said Wendy Johnson, Trooper Johnson's wife.

He was suited up and walked out to the number 8 jet where his name graced the canopy alongside those of the pilot and crew.

"The flight was great," exclaimed Trooper Johnson. "(Pulling) the 9Gs was fun," he added proudly wearing his 9-G pin presented to him for sustaining the maximum stress allowed in the fighter.

"The barrel rolls got me; the fourth roll is when I started to feel sick," said Trooper Johnson, who admitted to needing one of the airsickness bags.

"I am very happy the Air Force has taken the time to recognize one of my employees," said Trooper Koushel. "As VSP officers, our greatest reward is the recognition from the community.

To receive this kind of recognition from the U.S. Air Force is thrilling; we are very grateful."
Trooper Johnson said he felt blessed for being in the right place at the right time; the vehicle was engulfed in flames within two minutes after the child was freed.

"The only thing going through my mind was that there was no way I was going to let this happen to this little girl, I just kept thinking of my sons being trapped inside there," said Trooper Johnson.

When asked how he will explain his Thunderbird experience to other people he said, "I can't. You have to do it, it's unreal."