Between Two Wings with Michelle "MACE" Curran - Former Thunderbird Lead Solo, F-16 Fighter Pilot

On this episode of Between Two Wings we talk with Michelle “MACE” Curran, who flew as a Lead Solo for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds’. Learn what led her to become a motivational speaker after a successful career in the military, how the Thunderbirds selection process became more challenging during her time with the team, and how their series of flights across the U.S. at the height of COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020 all started with a group text and why it was some of the most stressful flying of her career.

[@serverninjas]

Thank you for the great interview.

[@Ptolemy_K]

Big fan, MACE!! [6:06] - Spectacular image. That's the shape of our modern military. Enjoy your 'after DOD' career.

[@locustvalleystring]

We went to a great observation point in Jenkintown PA to watch your America Strong Flyover. Loved it.

[@happyhome41]

IMPRESSIVE ! I was in the F-16 SPO when the Thunderbirds in T-38s dove into the desert floor, and the order came out to refit the Thunderbirds with F-16s. I was involved in the flight testing required. At the time, the F-16 was not allowed to be a "combat" aircraft because of the worldwide mission with overflights and visits to countries that would not accept a "combat" aircraft. The requirement was to be able to refit them within 48 hours if the need arose. Another interesting aspect - and this surprises many people - the F-16 was not designed to fly inverted - in keeping with most military craft, because pilots tolerate poorly negative Gs, and in a review of the airplane system, the one critical system that would not support the Thunderbird flight envelope was engine oil. Pretty amazing with the downsizing of the military since then, the F-16 is still a front line system, and Ms Curran's "stick skills" are truly impressive, and even more so, is knowing what one wants and then putting in the effort to make it happen. IMPRESSIVE ! And THANK YOU for your SERVICE !!!

[@narvelwilson4446]

YOU ARE THE BOMB YOUNG LADY AND THANK YOU !!!!!!

[@locustvalleystring]

Enjoyed thoroughly. Thank you.

[@mauriceevans6546]

Awesome interview! Thanks!

[@russell461]

It's not an F-16 but my L-39 Albatros Jet is painted up in honor of the US Thunderbirds. I would be honored to have you in my RCP at Sun N/ Fun 2023 or Osh 2023 in one of our formation flights with other pilots in the Classic Jet Aircraft Association. I appreciate your service !

[@drbooo]

Years ago I took a Red Flag winner who flew F-4's, a ride in my Cardinal. He couldnt get over slow.

[@space1commander]

I really love female Pilots.

[@SuperJolly96]

Hi, I was an Air Force mechanic on the HH 3 E & from tech school I was Stationed at Hamilton working on the HH53C. Third week of April of 1972 23:20 one days notice I went TDY to NKP, Thailand about 12 miles from the Mekon River. My claim to fame is that I recovered the Jolly that brought Bat21 home after being shot down & getting his weight back. A question I have is what does MACE stand for?!?!?!

[@foreflight]

Hi Harry, Michelle's callsign is MACE.