MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Moody Air Force Base’s Capt. Robert Gulla, 723rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron maintenance operations officer, was selected as the next U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds maintenance officer.
The Thunderbirds are known for their airshows across the globe. However, their demonstrations, which more than 300 million people have experienced, could not be possible without their support team.
“Flying the airshow is done by the pilots, but the support Airmen make the show possible,” Gulla said. “To have an opportunity to be a part of the support team is humbling, and I feel incredibly honored to do so.”
As Thunderbird No. 11, Gulla will be responsible for overseeing maintenance operations during the 2022 and 2023 show seasons. To earn his spot on the team, Gulla had to submit a package with several requirements to include a letter of recommendation. He even had to visit Nellis Air Force Base to interact with the Thunderbirds in order to complete the application process.
“Captain Gulla performed through a number of interviews and hypothetical scenarios to earn his position as Thunderbird No. 11,” said Lt. Col. James Schieser, 23d Maintenance Group deputy commander. “What he (will) bring to the team is a humble reputation of solving complex sustainment issues, effective maintenance team development and his dynamic ability to interact well with the American public.”
The community interaction is what it’s all about for Gulla. He said being a Thunderbird is more than just overseeing maintenance operations and making sure the aircraft are safe and reliable.
“It’s an awesome opportunity to showcase American airpower to the rest of the country,” Gulla said. “There are unique experiences to be on the team and to have those positive interactions with communities all over the country.”
Although Gulla is leaving Moody Air Force Base, he is bound to take his maintenance expertise and Air Force pride with him everywhere he goes.
“Ultimately, he will serve to inspire the next generation of young men and women to join our service,” Schieser said. “I cannot think of a better officer than Captain Gulla to represent our career field in the Thunderbirds’ need for ‘pride, precision and professionalism.’”