Embry-Riddle president takes flight with U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds

The Thunderbirds — who are in town for the Daytona 500 — extended an opportunity for President Barry Butler to ride along with one of their pilots aboard an F-16 Fighting Falcon.

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Flying with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds was a dream for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University President P. Barry Butler. On Thursday, Feb. 15, that dream came true.

The Thunderbirds — who are in town for the Daytona 500 — extended an opportunity for Butler to ride along with one of their pilots aboard an F-16 Fighting Falcon. Butler, an Ormond Beach resident, soared to the skies with Maj. Bryce "Triple" Turner, a flight experience he said in a statement was "a remarkable demonstration of the pride, precision, and professionalism of the U.S. Air Force.”

“The Thunderbirds’ mission is well aligned with Embry-Riddle’s long history of serving those who serve, and our goal to inspire young people to pursue aviation careers," Butler said in a press release.

The goal of the flight was to inspire young people to pursue careers in aviation, and the Thunderbirds share a connection to ERAU as well — Their leader and commander, Lt. Col. Nathan "Sheik" Malafa graduated from ERAU with his master's degree.

Audrey Butler, who is the ambassador for ERAU and the president's wife, said she was very happy for her husband. A few years ago, he planned to fly with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, but that fell through. The Butlers were crossing their fingers the flight with the Thunderbirds would come to fruition, particularly because his father served as a pilot in the Air Force.

"As an Air Force family, aviation is his whole life," she said. "His passion and his career, so this is especially nice for him." 

 

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