Bay County Sheriff’s office investigator honored as Thunderbirds hometown hero

PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - A Bay County Sheriff’s Office investigator was honored by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds as a hometown hero, taking flight in an F-16 at Aaron Bessant Park.

Corporal Alvin Iler, a Bay County Sheriff’s Office investigator, was selected as a Thunderbird’s hometown hero after meeting strict physical and professional requirements. The honor is reserved for those making a real impact in their communities.

Iler suited up and climbed into an F-16 with the Thunderbirds during a meet and greet at Aaron Bessant Park.

Captain Jason Daffin of the Bay County Sheriff’s Office said Iler has made a difference in countless lives with the cases he has worked and the people in the community he has helped.

“I’ve seen him spend extra hours at the office, which is time away from his family to see cases through to get justice for families and for victims,” Daffin said.

Czaine Iler, Corporal Alvin Iler’s wife, said she is proud of the recognition.

“I am very proud, and I couldn’t be more happy for him,” Czaine Iler said.

The Thunderbirds’ hometown hero program highlights individuals across the country who are making a difference.

The air show will be held on Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m.

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