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The Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration team practiced its flight routine this week, in preparation for the opening of the Air Force Memorial. The Thunderbirds will perform during the memorial's dedication activities October 14, but used October 12 to practice in normally restricted airspace over the nation's Capitol.

Because of the activities planned as part of the Air Force Memorial opening, the team was allowed to practice over the Pentagon and North Arlington, VA. The Thunderbirds rehearsed a few flyovers, as well as the bomb-burst formation that inspired the design of the memorial.

Members of the Thunderbirds team also interacted with the public in area forums and at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum October 11.

The practice flight is just one of many preparations taking place in the days leading up to the memorial opening on Saturday. The Pentagon's south parking lot is currently being cleared of all vehicles to make way for an open house and free LeeAnn Womack concert to take place there October 14 as part of the memorial dedication events.

As Aero-News reported, the memorial dedication will also kick off the year-long commemoration of the Air Force's 60th anniversary as a separate service.

Brig. Gen. Janet A. Therianos, director of the 60th Anniversary office at the Pentagon, said in addition to the memorial opening, this upcoming year will be full of events ranging from hometown parades and base picnics, to Air Force appearances at major national events.

"This commemoration involves everything the Air Force is about," she said. "From the pioneers who paved the way, to the Airmen who now fight and support the war on terrorism, to the future generations who are going to carry on after us, this historic time embraces the whole picture. It is our chance to honor our heritage, and hope for the future."

FMI: www.af.mil