Volunteers to do flyovers at Air Force Academy graduation

AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – The jets that typically streak over Air Force Academy seniors on graduation day have been grounded by federal budget cuts, but privately owned aerial demonstration teams are volunteering to do the flyover instead.

The Air Force Thunderbirds' demonstration team canceled dozens of performances due to the cuts known as sequestration.

But academy officials said Thursday that more than a dozen pilots have volunteered to fly historical U.S. military aircraft over graduation week events, including the commencement ceremony May 29.

Texas Flying Legends Museum President Tyson Voelkel (VOH'-kul) says his organization is honored to be among those volunteering time and aircraft for the flyovers. The Army veteran says his organization wants to honor veterans attending the commencement ceremony, to inspire cadets, and to make it a memorable graduation for seniors.