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F-22 Demo Team completes first season

November 29, 2007 (by 1st Lt Rachel Sherburne) - The F-22 Demonstration Team marked the end of its first air show season by hosting a re-enlistment ceremony followed by a demonstration Nov. 29.

The F-22 Demonstration Team marked the end of its first air show season by hosting a re-enlistment ceremony for 10 Airmen followed by a demonstration on November 29th, 2007. [USAF photo by A1C. Vernon Young]

Team members performed before more than 5 million people at more than 18 various air shows and events around the U.S. and Canada from April through November 2007.

The demonstration profile, which showcases some of the capabilities of the Air Force's newest fighter jet, never ceased to "awe" crowds, according to Tech. Sgt. Jason Schmidt, F-22 Demo Team noncommissioned officer in charge.

"Everyone would stand before Major Moga took off, and they didn't sit down until he landed. We heard 'I just didn't know an aircraft could do that' countless times throughout the season," he said.

Team members took this opportunity to meet and talk with civilians, veterans, potential recruits, and aviation enthusiasts and legends about the F-22 Raptor and the capabilities of the United States Air Force, which celebrated its 60th anniversary this year.

"Every air show is a unique experience for us," said Maj. Paul Moga, F-22 Demonstration Team pilot, "but our overall goal this year was to show the public the newest capability of their Air Force and we hope to have done just that."

Members of the demo team also found time to give back to the communities by visiting with students at junior high and high schools as well as sick children at hospitals around the country. Master Sgt. Tim Green, F-22 Demo Team chief, said this was what he enjoyed the most.

"We were able to put smiles on kid's faces who didn't have much to smile about," he said.

All team members noted that getting the chance to be on the first-ever F-22 Raptor Team was truly an incredible experience, and they're looking forward to the 2008 air show season, which begins in April.

"Being able to display the world's best fighter, maintained by the world's best maintainers, to people all around the country is an amazing opportunity," said Sergeant Schmidt.


Courtesy 1st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

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    Additional images:

    The F-22 Demonstration Team marked the end of its first air show season by hosting a re-enlistment ceremony for 10 Airmen followed by a demonstration on November 29th, 2007. [USAF photo by A1C. Vernon Young]

    F-22 Raptor Demo Team [USAF Image]