BATTLE CREEK (WKZO-AM) — It was too windy to launch the balloons last night, so they will try again this evening.
All the events and features that have been offered this week will still be on the grounds today, with one big addition. Most of the aerial acts that will be performing this weekend will go up to rehearse.
Spokesman Brenton Bailey said the pilots need to become familiar with local landmarks. He said it will be a full day of activity. Festivities tonight will conclude with a “balloon illume.”
The Air Force Thunderbirds roared into Battle Creek on Thursday.
For the first time since one of their pilots had to eject after his fighter crashed, the Air Force team will be performing at full strength this weekend in Battle Creek. On June 2, the team had just flown in formation over the graduation ceremonies at the Air Force Academy when Maj. Alex Turner lost power, aimed the F-16 toward an open field and ejected, escaping without injury.
Lt. Colonel Chris Hammond said Turner will rejoin the show this weekend. He says they have been working with just five planes for the last few weeks and more happens during the show when there are six planes in the sky.
He said the cause of the malfunction in the F-16 is still being investigated.
The Thunderbirds will do a rehearsal Friday over Kellogg Field. Then, three shows will take place Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
