Local residents who turned their eyes skyward on the afternoon of May 9 saw planes flying in close formation and drawing a commemorative heart above Dominican Hospital in an airshow to say thanks to essential workers for their hard work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The tribute was paid by Lightning Formation Airshows, with support from Watsonville Airport and in conjunction with the California International Airshow Salinas.
Dominican was one of several sites along with Watsonville Community Hospital chosen for recognition.
Nurses at Dominican came outside to see the planes and their aerial message of support, giving a cheer and posing for a photo before resuming their duties inside.
What people may not have known is that four of the eight pilots in Lightning Formation are area residents based at the Watsonville and King City airports.
“We also share our compassion with those in our community with loved ones who are sick or have been tragically lost to this disease,” said Mercedes Eulitt of Watsonville, Lightning Formation Airshows wingman.
Rayvon Williams, director of Watsonville Municipal Airport, said the airport was happy to support the talented aviators.
“It’s just another example of the city’s commitment to our community and an opportunity for our aviation community to say ‘Thanks!’ to our local essential workers,” he said.
The 40th anniversary Salinas airshow scheduled for June 5, 6 and 7 has been cancelled to prevent the spread of the contagious coronavirus COVID-19.
Karen Curtis, California International Airshow Board of Directors president, thanked essential workers, calling them “dedicated and fearless workers.”
She added, “These individuals have become our front line of defense in this battle against COVID-19 through no choice of their own. Without these brave souls, all of our lives would be impacted so much worse.