From the air to the ground, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds spread smiles across the Sioux Falls area
If you were in the area, you may have seen, and heard, their showmanship and talents over a recent weekend
But before they took to the sky, they made a few stops at the campus of the Sanford USD Medical Center to spread those smiles to people who might not be able to see the airshow
“We have a very unique opportunity to get out in the community, which is always a treat for us,” said Maj. Josh Burress, a Thunderbird pilot. “It’s important for our team to get in touch with everyone in our nation, but also with those who served.”
A group of pilots stopped to visit veterans who were hospitalized, thank them for their service, and share stories and experiences with each other
“This part of the job is always part of the reason why you sign up. The flying’s always a riot, but deep down when it comes to the Thunderbird mission, it’s to recruit, retain and inspire,” said Burress
The pilots’ willingness to visit is not lost on Matt Rollag, who leads the office of military and veteran experience at Sanford Health
“It’s a big deal that we were able to get them here today. Their schedules are packed full when they come to town and for them to be willing to carve out some time to come to the hospital and visit patients today was awesome, and I think we’re only able to coordinate that because of Sanford’s partnerships throughout the community,” said Rollag
‘Full circle’ moment for veteran employee
Sanford Health has invested in care for veterans, opening veterans clubs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Fargo, North Dakota, in 2018
Rollag, a veteran himself, said being selected as the lead of military and veteran experience was a dream come true, and an honor
“It’s a full circle moment for me because I have been part of both the 114th fighter wing and at Sanford Health for over a decade. This particular event and my role with Sanford’s office of Military and Veteran experience allowed me to connect and coordinate between the two organizations.”
The veterans weren’t the only patients who were visited. Another group of pilots stopped to visit children at the Sanford Children’s Hospital
“We have a whole society of young kids growing up, and we want to show them that serving your country is a noble path to go into. If that’s something they end up doing, we want them to know that their country is going to take care of you,” said Burress
Learn more
- Brotherhood of veterans serves at Sanford AirMed
- Adaptive sports program provides fitness, fellowship
- Veteran honored with end-of-life pinning ceremony
Posted In
Children’s, Sioux Falls, Veterans
