Premier air demonstration team seeks team members Published Dec. 6, 2011 By Debbie Gildea Air Force Personnel, Services and Manpower Public Affairs RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFNS) -- America's premier air demonstration team, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, is accepting applications for several positions, Air Force Personnel Center officials announced today. The 138-member unit exhibits Air Force professionalism and skill in support of recruiting and retention programs to reinforce public confidence in the Air Force, to strengthen morale, and support community relations and public image programs, said Bob Cronin, of the AFPC academic and special utilization branch. "Serving with the Thunderbirds is a great opportunity to help foster strong relationships with other countries, strengthen pride in our country and service, and see a piece of the Air Force that most Airmen never see," Cronin said. Officers serve a two-year assignment on the team, while enlisted members serve three or four, Cronin said. The squadron performs up to 75 demonstrations per year in the U.S. and overseas. Activated in 1953, the Thunderbirds are an Air Combat Command unit and, if necessary, all members and equipment can be rapidly integrated into a flying unit. Available positions include demonstration pilot, operations officer, executive officer, maintenance officer and public affairs officer. For full application preparation and submission instructions, or for information about other personnel opportunities and issues, go to the secure Air Force Personnel Services website at https://gum-crm.csd.disa.mil.