I had to grin in spite of myself after reading Breezy Willis' article, 'Intimidating flyovers show failing policy,' defaming the US military and in particular the U.S. Air Force after observing an F-16 flyover at a football game. His comments are the sort I frequently hear from someone who knows absolutely nothing about the military, aside from what they read in technical manuals or hear from people like Michael Moore.
While he makes a few good points about the expenditures involved, I think he is totally missing the point. Yes, it gives the jet jocks 'something to do on the weekend,' but since all pilots have to fly on a regular basis to maintain proficiency (including formation flight), it makes good economic sense to combine missions.
The display of military hardware is every bit as patriotic to most of those watching as the American flags they fly over their tailgate parties. Be pleased those F-16's are flying over your football game in a peaceful display, rather than flying over hostile terrain and having to use that 'horrible ordinance' he describes them carrying.
Personally, I am a whole lot happier seeing and hearing our F-16s, F-18s, AH-64s, etc., flying overhead, since I never have to look up and worry what other country might be prowling our skies with much more hostile intent. I am glad our country is strong enough and free enough that Mr. Willis is able to express his opinions in anyway he likes.
