Performers: The U.S. Navy Blue Angels
In 1946, the Chief of Naval Operations, Admi- ral Chester Nimitz, had a vision to create a flight exhibition team to raise the public’s interest in na- val aviation and boost Navy morale. In the 1940s, The U.S. Navy Blue Angels thrilled audiences with their precision combat maneuvers in the F6 Hell- cat, the F8 Bearcat and the F9 Panther. During the 1950s, the Blue Angels refined their demonstra- tion with aerobatic maneuvers in the F9 Cougar and F-11 Tiger, and introduced the first six-plane delta formation, still flown to this day. By the end of the 1960s, the Blue Angels were flying the F-4 Phantom, the only two seat air- craft flown by the delta formation. In 1974, they transitioned to the A-4 Skyhawk, a smaller and lighter aircraft with a tighter turning radius al- lowing for a more dynamic flight demonstration. In 1986, the Blue Angels celebrated their 40th anniversary by unveiling the Boeing F/A-18 Hor- net. In 2021, they transitioned to their current aircraft the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet and cel- ebrated their 75th anniversary. In 1949, it became necessary for the Blue An- gels to operate a support aircraft to move per-
sonnel and equipment between show sites. These support aircraft included the Douglas R4D Sky Train, the Curtiss R5C Commando, the Douglas R5D Skymaster, and the Lockheed C-121 Super Constellation. In 1970, the team received the Lockheed Martin C-130, affectionately known as “Fat Albert.” In 2020, “Fat Albert” transitioned to its current platform, the C-130J Super Hercules.
A message from the Blue Angels
The goal of our Blue Angels’ team is to inspire a culture of excellence and service to country. We are representatives from the fleet, showcasing the pride and professionalism of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. We are thrilled to perform demonstrations across the country, sharing our Navy and Marine Corps experienc- es with our fellow Americans, bringing Naval aviation to communities across the country that may not have a large military presence. This year marks the 78th year of the Blue An- gels. Since 1946, it has been our honor to rep- resent the hundreds of thousands of men and women who serve in the United States Navy and
Marine Corps to audiences both at home and abroad, showcasing the excitement, precision, and power of Naval aviation. Our 158 active duty Sailors and Marines uphold the rich tradition of excellence instituted by those who have served before us. Our goal for 2024 is to continue to inspire young men and women, not just to pursue a career in Naval aviation or the mil- itary, but to excel in all areas of their lives. Each performance provides the American pub- lic an opportunity to view the incredible capabil- ities of our service members serving aboard every ship, squadron, and unit in the United States Navy and Marine Corps. It is our goal to see that tomorrow’s leaders will be inspired and motivated by what they see our men and women accomplishing today.
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