Crowd wowed at Scott's air show Published Sept. 19, 2012 By Staff Sgt. Stephenie Wade 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- More than 95,000 air show enthusiasts filled the flightline ramps at Scott Air Force Base to see the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds perform their very loud demonstration of air power Sept. 15 and 16. The Thunderbirds wowed the crowds with their 45-minute aerial choreography that included four-jet diamond formations, mirror passes, crossover break maneuvers, bomb bursts and a surprise low altitude tactical pass with full after burner that scares most people. While they were the main attraction for the 2012 Airpower Over the Midwest air show, several others showcased their acrobatic skills such as the Vanguard RV3 Squadron, and Randy Ball and his Mig 17 demo to name a few. "We loved the air show as we always do," said Bonnie Loveless Lewis. Lewis attended the show on Saturday, and said she was excited when the thunderbirds flew over her home Sunday. "Thank you to the men and women who serve our country, here and around the world. We are so proud of you all." Maj. Thomas Knaust, air show director, said the weekend's events exceeded his expectations and that the overcast weather proved to be a relief for spectators and didn't affect any performances. "All the long months of planning came together perfectly," Knaust said. "The show was great, and all those who had a part in it should be proud. The B-2 flyover on Saturday was one of the big hits with the crowds, as well as the opportunity to talk to pilots and other servicemembers." Air show patrons got an up-close view of military aircraft and equipment from the past and present from and static displays showcasing civilian, military and vintage aircraft. Another highlight was the U.S. Special Operation Command's Para Commandos team as they jumped out of U.S. Navy C-2. Other performers included the Tuskegee Museum T-6 and TG-7. In addition to the aircraft, the air show featured food, inflatable slides for kids, a corvette car show, virtual experiences, unique military displays and autographs from the Thunderbirds. Danny Callahan said, "The show was great both days, I am ready for the next one!"