Local Teacher-of-the-Year to Fly With Air Force Thunderbirds

Richmond County's Teacher-of-the-Year is about to get the ride of her life.  C.T. Walker Magnet School's Shikara Willis has been chosen to fly with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds as part of their "Hometown Hero" program, honoring local deserving people.

Willis, who teaches fifth-grade English language arts at C.T. Walker, has been an educator for 19 years.  "I am incredibly excited and honored to be given this opportunity," said Willis.  She'll compete with other teachers-of-the-year from throughout the state for the 2024 Georgia Teacher of the Year honors.

Willis will get a 45-minute flight Friday morning, leaving Augusta Regional Airport at 11:30.  She'll get to experience the thrill of hitting up to seven G's, as well as the twists, spins and turns seen during the Thunderbird's air shows.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will be the featured performer at this weekend's air show, Saturday and Sunday, at Augusta Regional Airport.  There will also be demonstrations including the F-16 Viper Demo Team, SOCOM Para-Commandos, Red Bull Helicopter, Red Bull Air Force, P-51 Mustang, and aerobatic pilots Buck Roetman and Kevin Coleman.

For more information and to get tickets for the air show, visit augustaairshow.com.  Tickets can only be purchased online or by phone.  They won't be available at the gate days of the show.