F-35A pilot becomes Thunderbird

Air Force Thunderbirds. Air Force photo

NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. – The first F-35A pilot has been chosen to join the Air Force Thunderbirds. He’s Capt. Stephen Del Bagno of the 58th Fighter Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., who will fly the No. 4 slot position. The commander of the Air Combat Command, Gen. Mike Holmes, officially selected seven pilots on June 30 to join the flying demonstration team for the 2018 season. (Source: Thunderbirds, 06/30/17) The 58th FS is part of the 33rd Fighter Wing, which trains pilots and maintenance personnel.