Thunderbirds Salute Orange County's Essential Workers Friday

MISSION VIEJO, CA —On Friday, a roaring tribute was offered to those who are keeping things going in Orange County during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Air Force's celebrated Thunderbirds honored front-line COVID-19 responders and essential workers Friday with a dramatic formation flight over Los Angeles and Orange counties Friday.

"It is an honor for our team to salute the countless Californians who have committed to keeping the communities safe during this difficult time in our nation," said Lt. Col. John Caldwell, commander of the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron. "We hope to give onlookers a touching display of American resolve that honors those serving on the frontline of our fight against COVID-19."

A formation of six F-16C/D Fighting Falcons conducted the flyovers as a salute to health care workers, first responders, military and other essential personnel while standing in solidarity with all Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In Mission Viejo the sky was clear for all to see, according to residents. The sight brought feelings of patriotism to those lucky enough to witness it.

Across the Workers at area hospitals, police, fire, essential workers and residents gathered with cameras in hand in hopes of catching a glimpse of the squadron.

The F-16s passed in a flash, but with an impressive "sounds of freedom" roar.

The squadron began its Southland flyover at 1:35 p.m., passing over Orange County, cruising north over Irvine, Santa Ana, Garden Grove and Fullerton, before advancing into Los Angeles County.

The Thunderbirds headed north past the City of Industry, then circled over East Los Angeles and moved west, roughly over the Santa Monica (10) Freeway, then flew south along the coast and passed over Long Beach and then south to Newport Beach and east over Santa Ana, before moving toward Riverside County at about 2 p.m.

Though some south county cities were left out of the loop, a bevvy of online images and videos appeared showcasing the event.

The Thunderbirds made a secondary pass over northern Los Angeles County near Santa Clarita shortly after 3 p.m.

The Air Force encouraged people who took photos to tag them on social media as #AmericaStrong and #Thunderbirds.