Blue Angels, Thunderbirds fly over DC to thank health care workers

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels and Air Force Thunderbirds took to the skies over Washington, D.C., on Saturday to thank health care workers and first responders for their work during the coronavirus pandemic.

The air display showcased intricate forms and tricks from some of the top pilots in the armed forces and lasted around 20 minutes, according to NBC4 Washington.

“We are honored to fly over these cities in a display of national unity and support for the men and women keeping our communities safe,” Air Force Lt. Col. John Caldwell, Thunderbird commander and lead pilot, said in a statement. “These flyovers are a gesture of goodwill on behalf of the entire Department of Defense to the heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The squadrons flew over the Baltimore area just minutes before beginning the D.C. flyover that routed southeast over the Potomac River and Bethesda and Silver Spring, Md.

The route will continue into Virginia and head to Atlanta on Saturday afternoon, according to a Blue Angels itinerary posted on social media.

The Blue Angels and Thunderbirds flew over Philadelphia and New York City earlier this week, part of a nationwide initiative to thank critical workers during the pandemic.