The Thunderbirds were officially activated on this day in history 67 years ago, June 1, 1953, as the 3600th Air Demonstration Team at Luke AFB, Arizona. The McDonnell Douglas F-4E Phantom II flew for the Thunderbirds from 1969 to 1973. During this time, the Blue Angels flew the F-4J Navy version making the Phantom II the only aircraft to display the thrill of aviation for both teams.