Location: Langley AFB
Date: April 27-29, 2007
Story by: Denise Decker
Photography by: Denise Decker

Langley is home to the F-22 Raptor demo team, and Maj Paul “Max” Moga has choreographed an awesome set of maneuvers that highlight some of the handling characteristics of the aircraft. Still photos don’t do this fighter justice. On Friday afternoon Max took to the skies followed by the Thunderbirds. They joined up behind the crowd, and in a never before seen event, the Raptor led the red, white, and blue F-16s in several formations.

Max’s brother, Dave, (Army Maj David Moga) brought in two Apache Longbow helicopters for static display. The brothers had the opportunity to check out the other’s aircraft, as well as spending some quality time together.

For those that stayed and visited the static displays after the end of the show on Saturday, you may have seen Patty Wagstaff flying Jim Beasley’s P-51 Bald Eagle. She’s currently working on her routine for a special tribute she’s performing at the Gathering of Mustangs this September.

Once again the team at Langley Air Force Base brought together some of the most talented aviators and aerobatic pilots for their annual open house. Friday evening showcased many of these performers, followed by intermission for a concert by Kansas. Lightning caused cancellation of the nightshow, though the lightning was pretty spectacular.


Photo captions left to right: (1) Army Maj David Moga and his brother USAF Maj Paul "Max" Moga and their aircraft. (2) F-22 Raptor. (3 - 5) Patty Wagstaff flies Bald Eagle. (6-8) The Raptor leads the Thunderbirds in a rare formation. (9-10) Maj Paul "Max" Moga demos the Raptor.