NEW HANOVER, New Jersey — Special education teacher Miss Ellie Hyland took part in a unique experience with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, aiming to convey an important lesson to her students.
Hyland was chosen as the hometown hero by the Thunderbirds during the 2025 “Power in the Pines” Open House and Airshow held at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JB MDL). This recognition allowed her to fly as a passenger in one of the renowned F-16 Fighting Falcons, even getting the chance to participate in some aerial maneuvers.
Hyland teaches students aged 14 through 21 at Manchester Regional Day School in Ocean County, New Jersey.
When Hyland discovered she had been selected, she began incorporating lessons about airplanes and the military into her curriculum.
During the approximately hour-long flight, Hyland encountered forces of up to nine Gs. Her participation in the flight earned her a pin as a member of the ‘9G Club,’ in addition to a framed dedication from the Thunderbirds and an American flag that accompanied her on the journey.
The Thunderbirds appeared alongside other aircraft at the 2025 “Power in the Pines” Open House and Airshow on May 17th and May 18th at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
For more information about the air show, which is held every two years, visit their website.
