WARBIRD THUNDER

A third-generation pilot who earned his license at just 17, he has accumulated more than 21,000 flight hours across over 110 types of aircraft. Before pursuing aviation full time, he served as a professional firefighter, bringing that same discipline and precision to the cockpit. A competitive aerobatics pilot and formation expert, he spent seven years with the GEICO Skytypers, including serving as Operations Officer. Today, he continues to fly professionally as an Airline Captain and Line Check Airman.

WARBIRD THUNDER

He began flying at just 14 years old as a sailplane pilot and went on to serve 22 years in the U.S. Navy, flying both the F-14 Tomcat and A-4 Skyhawk. Over his military career, he logged more than 6,000 flight hours, including combat missions in support of Operation Desert Shield. After his service, he continued to share his expertise as a member of multiple jet demonstration teams and now flies professionally as a Boeing 747 Captain for an international cargo airline.

ROOSTER AEROBATICS

Lieutenant General (ret.) Bob “Rooster” Schmidle served 40 years as a United States Marine Corps aviator, logging over 4,700 hours in aircraft such as the F-4, F-18, and F-5. A TOPGUN graduate and combat veteran of Operation Desert Storm, he commanded multiple Marine aviation units and later held senior leadership roles within the Department of Defense, ultimately serving as head of Marine Corps Aviation.

CHARLIE MORRIS AIRSHOWS

Charlie’s passion for aviation began at a young age, flying with his Papaw and father in the family’s 7AC Champ. He started glider lessons at 14, completed his first solo in a glider, and by 17 had earned his private pilot certificate for single-engine land aircraft. After high school, Charlie served six years in the U.S. Army as a UAV operator, and he has since continued advancing his aviation career, earning his commercial license, instrument rating, and flight instructor certification.

MARCO BOUW AIRSHOWS

Marco Bouw is a professional pilot who brings precision and discipline to every aircraft he flies, whether performing for a crowd or transporting passengers. He earned his pilot’s license in high school and went on to achieve his Airline Transport Pilot certification, logging more than 7,000 hours across airplanes, jets, and helicopters. Inspired by local airshows, Marco developed a passion for aerobatics, purchasing his first competition aircraft in 2015 and steadily advancing through national and international competition. He has represented Team USA on the world stage, earned top finishes at U.S. National Aerobatic Championships, and continues to compete at the highest levels as a member of the U.S. Unlimited Aerobatic Team.