NASJaxAirshow2017

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2 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó

DEPARTMENT DEPARTMENT OF THE OF NAVY THE NAVY
NAVAL AIR NAVAL STATION AIR STATION
JACKSONVILLE, JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA 32212-5000 FLORIDA 32212-5000
IN REPLY REFER IN REPLY TO: REFER TO:
On behalf of the Naval Air Station Jacksonville team, it is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to our 2017 NAS Jax Air
Show showcasing the Navy’s Flight Demonstration Team, The Blue Angels. This annual event is highly anticipated by the local
community, and continues to thrill the many aviation enthusiasts who journey here each year to witness the awesome aviation
skills of our talented performers.
The air show not only entertains our community, but also serves to showcase the pride and professionalism of our young men
and women who have chosen to serve this great nation as a member of the armed forces.
I encourage you to take the opportunity to tour the flight line static displays and see first-hand the wide variety of military
aircraft represented this year, including the P-8A Poseidon, MQ-4C Triton Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) and the MH-60R
Romeo helicopter.
Additionally, you’ll see nationally and internationally renowned civilian aviators perform breathtaking aerial acrobatics over
our airfield.
The Jacksonville community remains a steadfast partner to our military and continues to make Jacksonville one of the most
sought after assignments in the Navy. It is because of this celebrated partnership that our military continues to thrive and grow
alongside this wonderful community that we are so privileged to call home.
On behalf of the entire NAS Jacksonville team, I hope that you enjoy the event, and ask that you continue to keep our service
men and women who are deployed throughout the world, in your thoughts as you enjoy the sights and sounds of freedom in the
skies.
SEAN P. HALEY
Captain, U.S. Navy
Commanding Officer
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LENNY CURRY
MAYOR
October 26, 2017
Dear Attendees,
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
As mayor of Jacksonville, it is my distinct honor and privilege to welcome you to the 2017 NAS
Jax Air Show. This spectacular showcase of aviation’s past, present and future represents a grand
tradition in our community, and this year’s event is sure to amaze and inspire people of all ages.
Naval Air Station Jacksonville has a long and distinguished history on the First Coast, and is
considered the birthplace of the world famous U.S. Navy flight demonstration team, The Blue
Angels. This year, air show spectators will enjoy the thrill of witnessing the return of The Blue
Angels to NAS Jax to perform the grand finale. The Blue Angels represent the best and brightest
of the Navy and Marine Corps, and it is exciting to have the team back in our city.
With a goal to be the most “Military and Veteran Friendly City in the United States,”
Jacksonville strongly supports our military, the men and women who serve and their families.
Traditions like the NAS Jax Air Show highlight the dedication, talent and expertise that we are
proud to celebrate.
If you are a visitor to Jacksonville, welcome! As the gateway to Florida, our weather and
hospitality are sure to provide you a warm and welcoming experience. From beautiful beaches to
spacious parks to the St. Johns River, I encourage you to enjoy everything our city has to offer.
Thank you for being here, and enjoy the show!
Sincerely,
Lenny Curry
Mayor
Contents
Captain Sean P. Haley, Commanding Officer,
Naval Air Station Jacksonville ................. 3
Mayor Lenny Curry ........................ 4
Mark Nusbaum, President, Times-Union Media ..... 4
Schedule of Events ........................ 6
History of NAS Jax Air Show ................. 8
Making of an Air Show. .................... 10
Matt Chapman .......................... 14
Historic Blue Angels Photo. ................ 15
242 ND Birthday, United States Navy ............ 14
Sean Tucker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
2017 Blue Angels Team ................. 20-21
Blue Angels Frequently Asked Questions ..... 22-26
Meet the Blue Angels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-32
242 ND Birthday, United States Marines . . . . . . . . . . .33
Matt Younkin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Patty Wagstaff .......................... 34
Randy Ball. ............................ 36
Rob Holland. ........................... 36
Bob Carlton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Skip Stewart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
History of Veterans Day .................... 39
About This Section
2017 NAS Jax Air Show is a special advertising section provided by the Military Publications
Department of The Florida Times-Union.
The section was coordinated and edited by Military Publications Publisher Ellen Rykert.
The section was designed by Military Publications designer George Atchley.
Material, information and photographs used in this section was provided by NAS Jacksonville,
the Blue Angels, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the aerobatic teams, unless otherwise
credited.
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ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 5

NAS Jax Air Show 2017 Schedule of Events
Friday, Nov. 3 (Practice Air Show – Not open to the public) & Saturday, Nov. 4
10:15 AM–10:27 AM SOCOM Flag Jump
10:28 AM–10:36 AM Sean Tucker Teaser
10:37 AM–10:45 AM Matt Chapman Teaser
10:46 AM–10:54 AM Rob Holland Teaser
10:55 AM–11:03 AM Skip Stewart Teaser
11:04 AM–11:12 AM Patty Wagstaff Teaser
11:13 AM–11:23 AM AF Heritage Flight
11:24 AM–11:34 AM Matt Chapman
11:35 AM–11:45 AM Jet Truck
11:46 AM–11:58 AM Randy Ball
11:59 AM–12:11 PM Bob Carlton
12:12 PM–12:25 PM Matt Younkin
12:37 PM–12:49 PM Rob Holland
12:50 PM–1:02 PM Lee Lauderback
1:02 PM–1:12 PM F-15 Fly Over
1:13 PM–1:28 PM Skip Stewart
1:28 PM–1:38 PM Jet Truck
1:39 PM–1:49 PM P-3 & P8
1:50 PM–2:05 PM Patty Wagstaff
2:06 PM–2:26 PM SOCOM Para Commandos
2:27 PM–2:39 PM Matt Chapman/Rob Holland
2:40 PM–2:55 PM Sean Tucker
3:00 PM–5:00 PM U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron –
The Blue Angels
Performance times are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.
Sunday, Nov. 5
10:15 AM–10:27 AM Socom Flag Jump
10:28 AM–10:36 AM Patty Wagstaff Teaser
10:37 AM–10:45 AM P-3 & P8
10:46 AM–10:54 AM Jet Truck
10:55 AM–11:03 AM Randy Ball
11:04 AM–11:12 AM Matt Chapman
11:13 AM–11:23 AM AF Heritage
11:24 AM–11:34 AM Rob Holland
11:35 AM–11:45 AM Bob Carlton
11:46 AM–11:58 AM Matt Younkin
11:59 AM–12:11 PM Lee Lauderback
12:12 PM–12:25 PM Skip Stewart
12:50 PM–1:02 PM Jet Truck
1:02 PM–1:12 PM F-15 Fly Over
1:13 PM–1:28 PM Patty Wagstaff
1:28 PM–1:38 PM Socom Para Commandos
1:39 PM–1:49 PM Chapman / Holland
1:50 PM–2:05 PM Sean Tucker
2:06 PM–2:26 PM U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron –
The Blue Angels
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ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 7

NAS Jacksonville Air Show History
U.S. Navy Photo
Thousands of guests walk the Naval Air Station Jacksonville flight line viewing static display aircraft during the 1952
air show.
By Ron Willamson
NAS Jacksonville Historian
Air shows have been a large part
of the aviation history of Jacksonville
and for the Navy. Probably the first
display from the station site was in
1918, when JN4 Jenny biplanes and
Curtiss Hydroaeroplanes, based at
the station with the Earl Dodge
aviation training camp, flew over
Jacksonville to celebrate the end
of World War I. The very first air
show held on the site was actually
during the early 1930’s, while under
the control of the Florida National
Guard. The highlight of the
show was an aircraft loop, one that
shocked the crowd!
The first Navy show was held on
the occasion of the station’s fifth
anniversary on October 15, 1945.
World War II had just ended and
the station threw open the gates so
the citizens of Jacksonville could see
the aircraft that helped win the war.
Vice Admiral Marc A. Mitscher was
the principle speaker at the ceremonies
for the fifth anniversary and
8 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó
special invited guest for the air show.
This was the only show held at the
station in which the Blue Angles
would not perform, as they had not
yet been formed. But NAS Jacksonville
remains one of only three locations
in which the Blue Angels have
flown shows in every type of aircraft
the team has used. Air shows were
held at the station with regularity
until 1973. After that year, air shows
for the Navy shifted to Naval Air
Station Cecil Field which remained
the main Jacksonville location until
NAS Jacksonville’s 50th Anniversary
in 1990.
From 1990 to 1997, air shows
alternated between NAS Jacksonville
and NAS Cecil Field. With the
closure of NAS Cecil Field, NAS
Jacksonville held three consecutive
air shows from 1998-2000. In 2001,
Jacksonville Beach held their first air
show and now alternates every other
year with NAS Jacksonville to host
the annual event. Below is a chronology
of air shows held at NAS
Jacksonville since the installation
was commissioned in 1940.
The air show in 1945 saw Vice
Admiral (VADM) Marc Mitscher
as the special VIP guest. Seven other
air shows have since been dedicated
to special VIP’s. On October 15,
1960 the second wife of Admiral
John Towers was in attendance when
he was honored, as the airfield was
dedicated after her late husband
for all of his major contributions
to Naval Aviation. The station’s
25th Silver Anniversary Air Show
was dedicated to VADM Robert
Goldthwaite. He was in charge of
Aviation Training at NAS JAX from
1941-1943 and later served as Commander,
Fleet Air Jacksonville from
1962-1965.
On October 15, 1990 the air show
was dedicated to local Congressman
Charles Bennett, and October
16, 1990, to Mr. Alexander Breast,
whose firm in 1943 built a large
number of the buildings at the station.
Roy M. “Butch” Voris, Captain
USN (Retired) was invited as the
VIP guest for the October 26-27,
NAS Jax Air Shows
Past, Present & Future
Date
October 15, 1945
June 7, 1946
September 29, 1946
November 8, 1948
May 8, 1949
August 29, 1950
December 7, 1952
October 25, 1959
October 14-16, 1960
October 15-16, 1961
October 15, 1963
November 1, 1964
October 15, 1965
July 11, 1971
November 3-4, 1973
October 13-14, 1990
October 31-November 1, 1992
September 24-25, 1994
October 26-27, 1996
October 24-25, 1998
November 5-7, 1999
October 15-16, 2000
November 1-2, 2002
October 30-31, 2004
October 28-29, 2006
October 25-26, 2008
October 23-24, 2010
November 5-6, 2011
October 25-26, 2014
November 4-5, 2017
1996 air show. Butch was honored
for his efforts in forming the original
“Flight Exhibition Team” as well as
being the first team leader of the
“Blue Angels” named while based at
NAS Jacksonville in 1946.
On November 2, 2000, “Butch”
Voris was again the special invited
VIP guest and during his visit the
installation’s Air Terminal was dedicated
with his name. He continued
Featured Act(s)
None
Blue Angels
(Private show for
Navy officials only)
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
(30 th Anniversary of first
trans-Atlantic flight)
Blue Angels
(Pearl Harbor Tribute)
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
(Station’s 20 th Anniversary)
Blue Angels
(Golden Anniversary
of Naval Aviation)
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
(Station’s 25 th Anniversary)
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
(Station’s 50 th Anniversary)
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
(Blue Angels’ 50 th Anniversary)
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
(Station’s 60 th Anniversary)
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
(Blue Angels’ 60 th Anniversary)
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
(Station’s 70 th Anniversary)
Blue Angels
(Centennial of Naval Aviation)
Blue Angels
Blue Angels
Tentative Future Air Shows
October 27-28, 2018
Blue Angels
2020
2021 (Blue Angels 75 th Anniversary)
to be our VIP guest for the 2002
and 2004 air shows. Captain Voris
passed away in 2005 and he will always
be remembered as “Boss One.”
In 2006, Raleigh “Dusty” Rhodes,
Commander, USN (Retired) was the
featured VIP guest. CDR Rhodes
was the third team leader of the Blue
Angels while the team was based at
See HISTORY, Page 9

HISTORY
From Page 8
NAS Jacksonville, and he lead the team move to NAS Corpus
Christi, Texas, in October 1948. Additionally, not only was the
Blue Angels patch used today designed by CDR Rhodes but he
was also the flight leader that transitioned the team into the jet
age. In 2008 and 2010, Al Taddeo, Commander, USN (Retired)
was our special VIP guest. CDR Taddeo, the last surviving pilot
of the original Blue Angels team, flew the original number three
plane when the team flew F6F “Hellcats.” CDR Taddeo had
not returned to NAS Jacksonville since being here as a Squadron
Commander in Fighter Squadron 43 (VF-43) in 1954.
The 2011 Air Show celebrated “The Centennial of Naval
Aviation.” Once again Al Taddeo and his wife Joan were our air
show VIP guests for this special anniversary commemorating
100 years of Naval Aviation excellence here at NAS Jacksonville!
The scheduled 2013 Air Show was cancelled due to government
sequestration efforts. The Blue Angels announced their
season would terminate early; with their last air show flown
at NAS Key West on March 24, 2013. The NAS Jacksonville
scheduled 2013 October air show was then rescheduled for
2014. Although NAS Jacksonville celebrated their 75th Golden
Anniversary in 2015, it was not possible to have an air show due
to a massive $51.9M runway renovation project. The runway
was officially opened on June 27, 2016 and air shows were once
again scheduled starting in 2017.
Spectators gather around a
Consolidated PBY Catalina
aircraft during the Naval
Air Station Jacksonville
Air Show in 1945. The
aircraft were used for antisubmarine,
patrol bombing,
convoy escorts, search
and rescue operations
and cargo transport
during World War II. They
were retired from military
operations in the 1980s but
are still used today for aerial
firefighting operations.
U.S. Navy Photo
Air show
enthusiasts
check out an F7F
Tigercat during the
Naval Air Station
Jacksonville Air
Show in 1945.
The Tigercat was
a heavy fighter
aircraft serving
with the United
States Navy and
Marine Corps from
late in World War
II until 1954.
U.S. Navy Photo
ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 9

Multiple organizations come together
to make 2017 air show a success
By Julie M. Lucas
NAS Jax Deputy Public Affairs Officer
U.S. Navy air shows involve many moving
parts, which include planning and coordinating
hundreds of tasks -- from those who
schedule the performers to those who direct
traffic and clean up after each day’s events.
For the 2017 NAS Jax Air Show, scheduled
for Nov. 4-5, a diverse team of professionals
join together with a shared vision to create
what is expected to be two spectacular days
of high-flying entertainment for hundreds of
thousands of spectators. Nov. 3 is scheduled
to be a dress rehearsal that is open to all active
duty personnel, Reservists, retirees and their
families -- as well as school children.
Historically, nearly 5,000 school-aged children
have attended the rehearsal air show.
Senior leadership from NAS Jax, including
Air Operations, Morale, Welfare and Recreation
(MWR), and Security Departments
along with local military and civilian organizations,
have spent more than a year planning
and preparing for the 2017 show.
“A successful air show hinges upon precision
planning and efficiency in execution,
beginning with a properly organized air show
committee,” said Cmdr. David Cordova, NAS
Jax assistant operations officer and air show
coordinator.
“The entire committee has worked extremely
hard over the last 12 months to ensure
the success of this air show.”
Cordova is not new to air shows, but this is
his first time as air show coordinator.
“Thankfully we have numerous individuals
from previous years’ events still attached to the
command and the base,” Cordova said.
“Their prior experience has been invaluable
throughout this entire planning process.”
Sponsorship plays an important role in the
success of an air show. NAS Jax’s MWR Department
is active from the beginning of the
planning process to make sure the financial
support is there to put together a successful
air show.
“In January we started this process of signing
up sponsors for the show,” said Morgan
Kehnert, MWR marketing and sponsorship
director.
“In order to support the air show financially
including paying the performers, fuel for the
jets and selling advertising to help us get the
word out about the show, sponsorship and
10 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó
Photo by Kaylee LaRocque
Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax) Air Show Volunteer Coordinator Lt. Cmdr. Al Dozier (left) discusses logistics and job requirements with a
group of Sailors from the station and tenant commands who are volunteering for the event. The 2017 NAS Jax Air Show will be held Nov. 4-5. For
more information, go to www.nasjaxairshow.com.
vendors are crucial. If you do not have sponsors,
you will not have a successful show.”
For Gary Loth, NAS Jax Security Department
air show coordinator, planning and
communication has been his focus since he
became involved with the event six months
ago.
“We haven’t done an air show in a few
years,” said Loth. “And for some of the officers,
this is their first time working this
event. The first thing I did was to reach out to
those who have been involved in the air show
previously, contact outside agencies, and get
everyone together to work out all the details.”
Several local agencies are working with the
NAS Jax Security Department to help provide
force protection measures that have been
established to meet numerous air show safety
and security requirements.
“We are grateful for all the support we get
from the local law enforcement community
and other agencies,” said Loth.
“We open up our base to the community
and we have to maintain its safety. A successful
show is one with no injuries. Everyone
comes on the base, enjoys the show and leaves
safely.”
The air show will host civilian and military
performers and also feature static displays of
military aircraft from the 1940s all the way to
the modern era.
“This year’s civilian performers are the best
in the air show industry and are truly some of
the most entertaining pilots in the world,” said
Cordova.
“They range from highly dynamic acrobatic
performances to daredevil wing walkers to
the always crowd pleasing 300-mph jet school
bus. We will also be showcasing the Navy’s
aviation legacy through the performances of
the F4U-5NL Corsair and the A-4 Skyhawk.
“The Air Force’s F-22 Demonstration Team
will also perform precision aerial maneuvers
to demonstrate the unique capabilities of
the world’s only operational fifth-generation
fighter aircraft. They also team up with the
A-10 Warthog and P-51 Mustang to present
the Air Force Heritage flight,” said Cordova.
The air show supports NAS Jax’s distinct
heritage as being the “Birthplace of the Blue
Angels” in 1946.
This year’s air show features the Navy Flight
Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels,
who will take to the air at 3 p.m. on Saturday
and Sunday for an unforgettable aerial
performance.
“Considering that NAS Jax has not hosted
an air show in three years,” said Cordova, I anticipate
the weekend crowd to be at or above
200,000 spectators.”

Photo by AZ3 Sarah Morris
Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax) Morale, Welfare and Recreation Marketing and
Publicity Director Morgan Kehnert prepares the 2017 NAS Jax Air Show posters for distribution
to commands and facilities around the station. The show will feature numerous military and
civilian acts including the Navy Flight Demonstration Team - The Blue Angels.
ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 11

Learn more about these fine pilots!
Patty Wagstaff
Page 34
Matt Younkin
Page 34
Skip Stewart
Page 37
12 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó

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Matt Chapman
matt.chapman.com
Matt is recognized as an extraordinary aerobatic
pilot who thrills millions of airshow fans each summer.
He began flying aerobatics in 1984 and quickly
worked his way up to the highest level of competition
aerobatics – the Unlimited category. Recognized
for his skills, he won one of only five slots on the U.S.
Unlimited Men’s Aerobatic Team in 1996 and 1998.
At the 1998 World Aerobatic Championships
(WAC), Matt was the highest-ranking American pilot,
finishing third in the world with a bronze medal.
He led the Men’s Team to a silver medal. Along
with this impressive finish came the coveted Hilliard
Trophy, awarded to the highest finishing U.S. pilot at
the WAC.
Matt also won the prestigious International Aerobatic
Club Championships in 1994 and the Fond du
Lac Cup in 1995.
Matt’s exciting competition aerobatics led him to
airshow performing. Matt is both a solo performer
and is the flight leader of the 4CE formation aerobatic
team.
Matt is also a respected airline captain at a major
US based air carrier with tens of thousands of flight
hours.
In addition to all that, Matt is a respected voice in
the airshow business, with a reputation for safety and
diligence. Matt enjoys building and flying radiocontrolled
aircraft of all types.
14 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó
Extra 330LX
The Extra 330LX is a two-seat, tandem arrangement, low-wing aerobatic monoplane
with conventional (tail dragger) landing gear, offering exceptional aerobatic performance.
Aircraft Dimensions
Wingspan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26.3 ft / 8.0 m
Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22.8 ft / 6.9 m
Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.6 ft / 2.6 m
Wing Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115.2 ft / 10.7 m
FAA / EASA Certified Load Factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . + /- 10 g
Weights
Typ. Equipped Empty Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.455 lbs / 660 kg
MTOW Normal Category (+6 / -3g) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.095 lbs / 950 kg
MTOW Two-Pilot Acro (+8 / -8g) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.918 lbs / 870 kg
MTOW Single-Pilot Acro (+10 / -10g) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.808 lbs / 820 kg
Airspeeds
Never Exceed Speed (Vne) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220 kts
Maneuvering Speed (Va) (Acro) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158 kts
Stall Speed at 1.808 lbs / 820 kg (Vs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 kts
Stall Speed at 2.095 lbs / 950 kg (Vs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 kts
Fuel
Total Capacity ....................................................49.9 gal / 189 ltr
Usable Fuel ......................................................49.4 gal / 187 ltr
Usable Fuel - Acro Tanks Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17.7 gal / 67 ltr

Blue Angels pilots
promotional photo,
Pensacola, 1957
Photo courtesy of Ron Williamson
The birth of the United States Navy
Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Nathan Wilkes
Sailors celebrate the U.S. Navy's 241st birthday aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) Oct. 12, 2016. Wasp was deployed with
the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group to support maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of
operations.
On Friday, October 13, 1775, meeting in
Philadelphia, the Continental Congress voted to
fit out two sailing vessels, armed with ten carriage
guns, as well as swivel guns, and manned by
crews of eighty, and to send them out on a cruise
of three months to intercept transports carrying
munitions and stores to the British army in
America. This was the original legislation out of
which the Continental Navy grew and as such
constitutes the birth certificate of the navy.
To understand the momentous significance
of the decision to send two armed vessels to sea
under the authority of the Continental Congress,
we need to review the strategic situation in
which it was made and to consider the political
struggle that lay behind it.
Americans first took up arms in the spring
of 1775, not to sever their relationship with
the king, but to defend their rights within the
British Empire. By the autumn of 1775, the
British North American colonies from Maine to
Georgia were in open rebellion. Royal governments
had been thrust out of many colonial
capitals and revolutionary governments put
in their places. The Continental Congress had
assumed some of the responsibilities of a central
government for the colonies, created a Continental
Army, issued paper money for the support
of the troops, and formed a committee to negotiate
with foreign countries. Continental forces
captured Fort Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain
and launched an invasion of Canada.
In October 1775 the British held superiority
at sea, from which they threatened to stop up the
colonies’ trade and to wreak destruction on seaside
settlements. In response, a few of the states
had commissioned small fleets of their own for
defense of local waters. Congress had not yet authorized
privateering. Some in Congress worried
about pushing the armed struggle too far, hoping
that reconciliation with the mother country was
still possible.
Yet, a small coterie of men in Congress had
See NAVY BIRTHDAY, Page 18
ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 15

Sean D. Tucker
Whether he’s climbing one of the Seven Summits, heli-skiing, or flying his
aerobatic dream machine, Sean D. Tucker is an aviation leader with a full-throttle
attitude who inspires others to pursue their passions.
Sean has been flying airshows worldwide since the mid-70's and has won
numerous aerobatic competitions. In that time, he has flown more than 1,275
performances at more than 525 airshows, in front of more than 135 million fans.
The level of professionalism and discipline in Sean’s airshows is no coincidence.
He practices his airshow routine three times every day. To endure the
extreme physical demands of each routine, Sean maintains a rigorous physical
training schedule, working out more than 340 days per year.
Named as one of the Living Legends of Flight, Sean is a member of an elite
group of aviators and astronauts that includes General Jimmy Doolittle, General
“Chuck” Yeager, and John Glenn.
When asked about flying airshows, Sean responds, "I like to think that I bring
the fans' dreams of flying into the plane with me and there's nowhere I'd rather
be than in the cockpit. That's why I train so hard to keep a finely tuned edge."
In addition to being a phenomenal aviator, Sean is also a larger than life character
who inspires millions of Americans. And he is passionate about the Team
Oracle program. His goal is to "share the magic of flight with Team Oracle's
guests by inspiring and thrilling them. “I want them to go away saying that the
airshow was one of the most engaging days of their lives."
16 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó
Sean’s Special Honors
• National Aviation Hall of Fame Inductee
• International Aviation Air and Space Hall of Fame
Inductee
• Named One of the 25 Living Legends of Flight by
the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
• Chairman of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s
Young Eagles Program
• Honorary member of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds,
U.S. Navy Blue Angels, Royal Canadian
Snowbirds, Brazilian Air Force Smoke Squadron,
U.S. Army Golden Knights
• U.S. Air Force Gathering of Eagles
• General Charles E. Yeager International Aeronautical
Achievements Award
• Living Legend in Aviation Award
• World Airshow Federation Champion
• The Bill Barber Award for Airshow Showmanship
• U.S. National Advanced Aerobatic Champion
Sky Bites
• Sean has logged more than 20,000 hours flying
time, which is equivalent to flying 24 hours a day
for more than two years.
• More than half of Sean's maneuvers have never
been duplicated by another aerobatic pilot.
• During media photo flights, Sean flies upright and
inverted within 5 feet of the support plane carrying
photographers.
• Twice during the performance, Sean flies the
aircraft backwards, straight-down, tail-first at more
than 100 mph.
• Sean is the only pilot to perform a triple ribbon
cut. He flies through the ribbons, which are only 25
feet off the ground, at 220 mph in right knife-edge
for the first ribbon, then left knife-edge, and finally
inverted.
~ www.oracle.com/corporate/
teamoracle/sean-tucker

ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 17

NAVY BIRTHDAY
From Page 15
been advocating a Continental Navy from the
outset of armed hostilities. Foremost among
these men was John Adams, of Massachusetts.
For months, he and a few others had been
agitating in Congress for the establishment
of an American fleet. They argued that a fleet
would defend the seacoast towns, protect vital
trade, retaliate against British raiders, and make
it possible to seek out among neutral nations of
the world the arms and stores that would make
resistance possible.
Still, the establishment of a navy seemed too
bold a move for some of the timid men in Congress.
Some southerners agreed that a fleet would
protect and secure the trade of New England
but denied that it would that of the southern
colonies. Most of the delegates did not consider
the break with England as final and feared that
a navy implied sovereignty and independence.
Others thought a navy a hasty and foolish challenge
to the mightiest fleet the world had seen.
The most the pro-navy men could do was to get
Congress to urge each colony to fit out armed
vessels for the protection of their coasts and
harbors.
Then, on 3 October, Rhode Island’s delegates
laid before Congress a bold resolution for the
building and equipping of an American fleet, as
soon as possible. When the motion came to the
floor for debate, Samuel Chase, of Maryland, attacked
it, saying it was “the maddest Idea in the
World to think of building an American Fleet.”
Even pro-navy members found the proposal too
vague. It lacked specifics and no one could tell
how much it would cost.
If Congress was yet unwilling to embrace
the idea of establishing a navy as a permanent
measure, it could be tempted by short-term
opportunities. Fortuitously, on 5 October,
Congress received intelligence of two English
brigs, unarmed and without convoy, laden with
Photo by Lt. Christopher Hanson
Sailors attached to Resolute Support Mission celebrated the Navy's 241st Birthday with a
commemorative event in the Destille Garden in Kabul, Afghanistan last year. More than 200
people from different service branches and various NATO countries attended the ceremony
which featured Deputy Chief Staff – Security Assistance and Combined Security Transition
Command – Afghanistan commanding general, Maj. Gen. Rick Kaiser as the Guest of Honor
and Capt.(SEAL) Grant Staats as the guest speaker.
munitions, leaving England bound for Quebec.
Congress immediately appointed a committee to
consider how to take advantage of this opportunity.
Its members were all New Englanders and
all ardent supporters of a navy. They recommended
first that the governments of Massachusetts,
Rhode Island, and Connecticut be asked to
dispatch armed vessels to lay in wait to intercept
the munitions ships; next they outlined a plan for
the equipping by Congress of two armed vessels
to cruise to the eastward to intercept any ships
bearing supplies to the British army. Congress
let this plan lie on the table until 13 October,
when another fortuitous event occurred in favor
of the naval movement. A letter from General
Washington was read in Congress in which he
reported that he had taken under his command,
at Continental expense, three schooners to cruise
off Massachusetts to intercept enemy supply
ships. The commander in chief had preempted
members of Congress reluctant to take the first
step of fitting out warships under Continental
authority. Since they already had armed vessels
cruising in their name, it was not such a big step
to approve two more. The committee’s proposal,
now appearing eminently reasonable to the
reluctant members, was adopted.
The Continental Navy grew into an important
force. Within a few days, Congress established
a Naval Committee charged with equipping a
fleet. This committee directed the purchasing,
outfitting, manning, and operations of the first
ships of the new navy, drafted subsequent naval
legislation, and prepared rules and regulations
to govern the Continental Navy’s conduct and
internal administration.
Over the course of the War of Independence,
the Continental Navy sent to sea more than
fifty armed vessels of various types. The navy’s
squadrons and cruisers seized enemy supplies
and carried correspondence and diplomats to
Europe, returning with needed munitions. They
took nearly 200 British vessels as prizes, some
off the British Isles themselves, contributing to
the demoralization of the enemy and forcing
the British to divert warships to protect convoys
and trade routes. In addition, the navy provoked
diplomatic crises that helped bring France into
the war against Great Britain. The Continental
Navy began the proud tradition carried on today
by our United States Navy, and whose birthday
we celebrate each year in October.
~ www.history.navy.mil
18 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó

ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 19

#
1 Captain Ryan Bernacchi
United States Navy
Flight Leader/Commanding Officer
#
2 Lieutenant Damon Kroes
United States Navy
Right Wing
#
3 Lieutenant Commander Nate Scott
United States Navy
Left Wing
#
4 Lieutenant Commander Lance Benson
United States Navy
Slot
#
5 Commander Frank Weisser
United States Navy
Lead Solo
2017
B lu e An g e ls
#
6 Lieutenant Tyler Davies
United States Navy
Opposing Solo
20 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó

#
7 Lieutenant Brandon Hempler
United States Navy
Narrator
#
8 Lieutenant Dave Steppe
United States Navy
Events Coordinator
#
9 Commander Matt Kaslik
United States Navy
Executive Officer
Lieutenant Colonel Mark Hamilton
United States Marine Corps
C-130 “Fat Albert” Pilot
Major Mark Montgomery
United States Marine Corps
C-130 “Fat Albert” Pilot
Major Kyle Maschner
United States Marine Corps
C-130 “Fat Albert” Pilot
2017
B lu e An g e ls
ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 21

22 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó
Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Daniel M. Young
U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, Delta pilots perform the Delta Break Out at the Sea and Sky Spectacular 2016 in
Jacksonville Beach. The Blue Angels performed more than 50 demonstrations across the U.S. in 2016, which was the team’s 70th anniversary
year.
B lu e An g e ls
Fr eq u e ntly A s ke d Questi o n s
1) What is the mission of the Blue
Angels?
The mission of the United States Navy
Flight Demonstration Squadron is to showcase
the pride and professionalism of the United
States Navy and Marine Corps by inspiring
a culture of excellence and service to country
through flight demonstrations and community
outreach.
2) What are the policies / requirements
governing back seat flights in the number
7 jet?
The Blue Angels typically provide three
backseat flights at each show site for selected
personnel. All three riders fly with the Number
7 pilot in the two-seat jet. Two of those riders
are selected from the Key Influencer (KI)
program and one rider is a credentialed media
representative. The KI program selects individuals
who shape attitudes and opinions of youth
in their communities. KI’s may be experts
in their field, public figures, leaders of youth
organizations, teachers, guidance counselors or
school administrators. They are not always the
person at the top of an organization, but rather
individuals that have an impact on recruiting
youth and/or a specific target audience.
Flying these candidates, in coordination with
media presence, is intended to promote the
Navy and Marine Corps as professional and
exciting organizations in which to serve. To be
selected as a Key Influencer, you must first be
nominated by a commanding officer of a Navy
or a Marine Corps recruiting district. For more
information, contact your local recruiter or air
show.
3) Who authorized establishment of the
Blue Angels?
The Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral
Chester W. Nimitz, ordered the establishment
of the team on April 24, 1946.
4) Where did the name “Blue Angels”
originate?
The name was picked by the original team
when they were planning a show in New York
in 1946. One of them came across the name of
the city’s famous Blue Angel nightclub in the
New Yorker Magazine.
5) Where was the Blue Angels’ first air
show?
Craig Field, Jacksonville, Florida, on June
15, 1946.
6) Why don’t the Navy Blue Angels
and the Air Force Thunderbirds fly
together?
Current Department of Defense policy
states the use of military aviation demonstration
teams is for recruiting purposes; therefore
the teams usually do not fly within 150 miles
of each other without special permission. Each
demonstration team showcases U. S. military
aviation capabilities to the public separately to
maximize Navy or Air Force recruiting efforts.
However, the Blue Angels or Thunderbirds
often perform with the U. S. Army Parachute
Team, the Golden Knights, or the U.S. Navy
Parachute Team, the Leapfrogs.
7) On average, how many people view
the Blue Angels each year?
An estimated 11 million spectators view
the squadron during air shows each year.
Additionally, the Blue Angels visit more than
50,000 people a show season (March through
November) during school and hospital visits.
8) What are the basic requirements for
becoming a Blue Angel demonstration
pilot?
Each applicant must be career-oriented,
carrier-qualified, active-duty Navy or Marine
Corps tactical jet pilot with a minimum of
1,250 flight hours.
9) How many Blue Angels demonstration
pilots have there been?
Including the 2017 season, there have been
261 demonstration pilots and 36 Flight Leaders/Commanding
Officers.
10) Do the Blue Angels pilots go
through the Navy Fighter Weapons
School (TOPGUN)?
Some current and former Blue Angels pilots
have gone through TOPGUN; however, it is
not a prerequisite.
11) How do you determine where to
hold an air show?
Each September, the Department of Defense
receives hundreds of requests to hold air
shows featuring the Navy Blue Angels. After
the Department of Defense screens requests
for basic eligibility, requests are forwarded
to the Blue Angels’ Commanding Officer.
The squadron reviews each air show request,
considering input from the Chief of Naval
Information and Navy Recruiting Command.
In December, the Blue Angels’ Events Coordinator,
along with Navy and Department of
Defense officials, meet at a scheduling conference
for final considerations and approval.
12) How does someone become a Blue
Angel demonstration pilot?
Navy and Marine Corps pilots meeting
the basic requirements submit an application
directly to the team via the Applications
Officer. Applicants visit the squadron at
scheduled show sites early in the show season
to observe the team firsthand. Finalists are selected
mid-season and interviewed at the Blue
Angels’ squadron in Pensacola, Florida. The
new demonstration pilots and support officers
are selected by unanimous vote. The Chief of
Naval Air Training selects the Flight Leader/
Commanding Officer.
13) What happens if a Blue Angel demonstration
pilot is ill or hurt?
Safety is paramount for every demonstration.
Each pilot is responsible for good health
and safety; however, the Blue Angels Flight
Surgeon will medically disqualify a pilot if one
should become ill or injured. Should the Flight
Leader/Commanding Officer be grounded for
medical purposes, the demonstration will be
canceled.
14) Why don’t the Blue Angels maintain
a spare pilot?
With the number of practice hours required
to safely fly a demonstration, a spare pilot
could not be utilized effectively. Each pilot
must complete 120 training flights during
winter training in order to perform a public
demonstration safely. The teamwork required
for the high-speed, low-altitude flying in the
See FAQ, Page 23

B lu e An g e ls FAQ Cont. from Pag e 22
tight Blue Angel formation takes hundreds of
hours to develop. A substitute pilot would not
have enough time in the formation to do this
safely.
15) Why don’t the pilots wear G-suits?
G-suits are designed with air bladders
(pockets) that inflate and deflate to keep a
pilot’s blood from pooling in the pilots’ legs
while executing sharp, unpredicted combat
maneuvers. Unlike combat flying, the Blue Angels
demonstration pilots know the maneuvers
they will fly prior to execution, so each pilot
knows when one will be experiencing heavy
gravitational forces. Anticipating the changes
in gravitational forces allows the Blue Angels
demonstration pilots to combat G-forces with
muscle contractions. Additionally, G-suits
would detrimentally impact flight safety.The
Boeing F/A-18’s control stick is mounted
between the pilot’s legs. The Blue Angels have
a spring tensioned with 40 pounds of pressure
installed on the control stick that gives the
pilot a “false feel.” This allows the pilot minimal
room for un-commanded movement. The
pilots rest their right arms on their thighs for
support and stability while flying. Therefore,
inflating and deflating air bladders in a G-suit
would interrupt this support and stability,
causing un-commanded aircraft movement.
16) How many Blue Angels have made
flag rank?
Fourteen former Blue Angels have made
flag rank. The flag officers include:
1. RADM E. L. Feightner (ret.), #5, 1952
2. RADM W. Lewis Chatham (ret.), #5,
1952
3. RADM W. A. Gureck (ret.), #2/4, 1955-
56
4. RADM Ernest Christensen (ret.), #3/4,
1969-70
5. RADM Jim Maslowski (ret.), #3/4,
1970-71
6. VADM Tony Less (ret.), #1, 1974-75
7. RADM William E. Newman (ret.), #1,
1978-79
8. RADM Dennis Wisely (ret.), #1, 1980-
81
9. BGEN Mark Bircher, #2, 1985-1987
10. RADM David Anderson, #5/6/7, 1985-
87
11. VADM Pat Walsh, #3/4, 1985-87
12. RADM Doug McClain, #3/4, 1988-90
13. RADM P. D. Moneymaker (ret.), #1,
1989-90
14. RDML Patrick Driscoll, #1, 1999-2000
17) Have any Blue Angels become
astronauts?
CDR Chuck Brady, Flight Surgeon, 1989-
90.
Photo by MC2 Edward Guttierrez III
The U.S. Navy flight demonstration team, the Blue Angels, fly in formation over Naval Air
Station Joint Reserve Base (NAS JRB) during the New Orleans Air Show 2017. NAS JRB New
Orleans hosted its first air show since 2011.
18) What is the average age of a Blue
Angels pilot?
The pilots’ average age is 33 years old.
19) How is the enlisted, support and
maintenance team selected?
See FAQ, Page 24
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ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 23

B lu e An g e ls FAQ Cont. from Pag e 23
Each applicant is selected from
a pool of applicants that can fill
upcoming job vacancies. The team
accepts applications from all aviation
and support ratings. All applicants
are interviewed and spend five days
with the team either in Pensacola
or at a show site. Exceptions to the
above are made for applicants who
are on deployment or overseas. For
more information, please see the
application message under “How to
Apply.”
20) What is the average age
of the enlisted, support and
maintenance team?
The average varies slightly; however,
it is approximately 26 years old.
21) Are the Blue Angels the
“best of the best?”
The Blue Angels are representatives
of the excellence and professionalism
found throughout the
fleet. Each Blue Angel team member
is an ambassador and representative
of their fleet counterparts.
22) How long is a Blue Angel
tour of duty?
Officers on the team generally
serve two to three years, while the
enlisted personnel serve three to four
years. Each member, both officers
and enlisted, return to the fleet after
completing a tour with the Blue
Angels.
23) How many Marines serve
in the squadron?
There are 13 Marines on the 2017
team. There are three C-130 pilots
and four enlisted aircrew in Fat
Albert Airlines. There are six enlisted
on the jet maintenance team.
24) How many females are in
the team?
The number of females varies each
year. The 2017 team has 14 enlisted
women and 1 financial technician on
the team.
25) How do team members
deal with the time away from
home?
Individuals are made aware that
they will be away from home a lot
before they volunteer for duty with
the team, and are selected based
on their ability to cope with not
only family separation, but with a
strenuous practice and show schedule.
Additionally, the Navy, Blue
24 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó
The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, prepare to practice routine maneuvers in
preparation for the 2017 Air Show aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C. The training day allowed
military and civilian pilots to practice their aerobatic routines before the Air Show opened to the public.
Photo by Lance Cpl. Kayla L. Rainbolt
Angels, and civilian communities
at Pensacola, Fla., and El Centro,
Calif., provide a family-type support
network.
26) Do any of the Blue Angels
get extra pay?
No. Each member of the squadron
volunteers for duty with the Blue
Angels. Due to extreme competition
at all levels, each individual feels
especially honored to be associated
with the team.
27) What is considered minimum
visibility for a Blue
Angel performance?
To be able to perform, the Blue
Angels must have at least three nautical
miles of visibility horizontally
from centerpoint, and a minimum
cloud ceiling of 1,500 feet, which
the FAA can waive to 1,000 feet. At
these minimums, the Blue Angels
can perform a limited number of
maneuvers in what is called a “flat”
show. When the ceiling is at least
4,500 feet and visibility at least three
nautical miles, a “low” show can be
performed, which includes some
rolling maneuvers. With a minimum
ceiling of 8,000 feet and visibility of
three nautical miles, the Blue Angels
can perform their “high” show, which
includes all the maneuvers.
28) What is the closest distance
that the jets fly to each other?
The closest the diamond will fly
to each other is 18 inches during the
Diamond 360 maneuver.
29) What are the lowest and
highest maneuver heights performed
during an air show?
This varies due to weather conditions.
The highest is the vertical roll,
performed by the Opposing Solo
(up to 15,000 feet) and the lowest
is the Sneak Pass (as low as 50 feet)
performed by the Lead Solo.
30) What is the most demanding
maneuver performed?
All maneuvers are demanding,
both mentally and physically, and reflect
the daily challenges met by fleet
Navy and Marine Corps aviators.
31) What are the fastest and
slowest speeds flown during an
air show?
The fastest speed is about 700
mph (just under Mach 1; Sneak
Pass) and the slowest speed is about
120 mph (indicated speed; Section
High Alpha), both flown by the solo
pilots during the show.
32) How many and what
types of aircraft have the Blue
Angels flown?
Since 1946, there have been eight
types of aircraft:
• Grumman F6F Hellcat, June-
August 1946
• Grumman F8F Bearcat, August
1946-1949
• Grumman F9F-2 Panther
(first jet), 1949-June 1950 and
Grumman F9F-5 Panther
1951-Winter 1954/55
• Grumman F9F-8 Cougar,
Winter 1954-55-mid-season
1957
• Grumman F11F-1 Tiger (first
supersonic jet), mid-season
1957-1969
• McDonnell Douglas F-4J
Phantom II, 1969-December
1974
• McDonnell Douglas A-4F
Skyhawk II, December
1974-November 1986
• Boeing F/A-18 Hornet, November
1986-Present
Additionally, in 1970 the Blue
Angels integrated a Marine Corps
C-130 Hercules aircraft, affectionately
known as “Fat Albert”, as the
opener of the flight demonstration.
The C-130 is a tactical transport
aircraft built by Lockheed Martin.
33) How many jets are in the
squadron?
The Blue Angels currently have
11 jets: one 2-seat F/A-18 B model,
eight single seat F/A-18 C models
and two 2-seat F/A-18 D models.
34) What are the major differences
between the fleet model
and the Blue Angel F/A-18?
The Blue Angel F/A-18s have the
nose cannon removed, a smoke-oil
tank installed and a spring installed
on the stick which applies pressure
for better formation and inverted
flying. Otherwise, the aircraft that
the squadron flies are the same as
those in the fleet. Each Blue Angel
aircraft is capable of being returned
to combat duty aboard an aircraft
carrier within 72 hours.
35) Are Blue Angels’ aircraft
carrier capable?
All of the Blue Angels’ jets are
carrier-capable and can be made
combat ready in about 72 hours. The
squadron’s C-130 (“Fat Albert”) is
manned by an all-Marine Corps
crew and was not designed for carrier
operations.
36) How do the jets get to each
show site?
The demonstration pilots fly the
jets to each show site.
37) How much does an F/A-18
cost?
The basic acquisition price of a
single F/A-18 A Hornet is approximately
$21 million. The cost of additional
weapons-related equipment
varies according to the configuration,
and use of each aircraft can significantly
increase the total price.
38) What is the top speed and
rate of climb of an F/A-18?
The F/A-18 can reach speeds
just under Mach 2, almost twice the
speed of sound or about 1,400 mph.
The maximum rate of climb of the
F/A-18 is 30,000 feet per minute.
39) What is the weight of an
F/A-18?
An F/A-18 weighs about 24,500
pounds, empty of all ordnance and
aircrew.
40) Why are the jets painted
blue and gold?
The jets showcase the official
colors of the U.S. Navy.
41) How far can the F/A-18
fly on a full load of fuel or with
external fuel tanks?
The F/A-18 can travel approximately
1,000 miles on a full load of
fuel without external tanks. Adding
the external tanks extends the range
to approximately 1,200 miles.
42) How do you produce the
See FAQ, Page 26

ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 25

B lu e An g e ls FAQ Cont. from Pag e 24
smoke, and why do you use it?
The smoke is produced by pumping biodegradable,
paraffin-based oil directly into the
exhaust nozzles of the aircraft, where the oil
is instantly vaporized into smoke. The smoke
provides a traceable path for spectators to
follow, so they can see the flight profile that
has been flown. It also enhances safety of flight
by providing a valuable means by which the
solo pilots can see each other during opposing
maneuvers and conditions of lowered visibility
or haze. The smoke poses no hazard to the
environment.
43) Why can’t the public listen to the
pilots’ conversation during the show?
Since all maneuvers are preceded by radio
communication, broadcasting these radio
calls or making the frequencies of their radios
publicly available could interfere with pilot
communication, thereby jeopardizing the
safety of flight.
44) Why is the C-130 called “Fat
Albert?”
“Fat Albert” is a nickname given to the
plane by Marine Corps Blue Angel pilots in
the 1970s because of its size and shape. It is a
reference to the popular children’s cartoon of
the same era.
45) What does “JATO” stand for?
“JATO” stands for Jet-Assisted Take-Off.
JATO was used by the Lockheed-Martin
C-130 to take off from short runways and
gain high altitude in a short period of time, as
required in combat situations. The first Blue
Angels JATO performance took place at NAS
Pensacola in November 1975. Eight solid fuel
JATO rocket bottles, each producing 1,000
pounds of thrust, helped propel Fat Albert
skyward and captivated millions of spectators
each year.
46) Why doesn’t Fat Albert use JATO
anymore?
JATO bottles were produced in the Vietnam
era. The last known stockpiles of JATO bottles
were expended during the Blue Angels’ 2009
show season. The last JATO performance for
Fat Albert was at the NAS Pensacola Air
Show in November 2009.
47) How much fuel does Fat Albert
hold?
Fat Albert holds 46,000 pounds of fuel.
48) What is the normal cruising speed
and shaft horsepower per motor of Fat
Albert?
Fat Albert’s cruising speed is 375 mph and
shaft horsepower is about 4,500 per engine.
49) What is the maximum takeoff
weight of Fat Albert?
26 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó
Photo by MC3 Dominick A. Cremeans
A controlled explosion takes place behind an aircraft assigned to the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels. The Blue
Angels perform more than 60 demonstrations at more than 30 locations across the U.S. in 2017.
The maximum takeoff weight of Fat Albert
is 155,000 pounds.
50) What is the distance under Fat
Albert’s propellers to the ground?
The distance under Fat Albert’s propellers to
the ground is approximately six feet.
51) How many crewmembers are assigned
to fly Fat Albert, and what are
their positions?
For 2017, seven Marines are assigned to
operate Fat Albert Airlines: three pilots, two
crew masters and two flight engineers.
52) How long has the team had the
C-130?
The team has been flying the C-130 since
1970.
53) Have the Blue Angels ever performed
overseas?
Yes. Throughout the years, the Blue Angels
have had limited opportunities to perform
overseas. In 1992 when the team completed a
European tour performing in Sweden, Finland,
Russia, Bulgaria, Italy, the United Kingdom,
Romania, Spain and Germany. The most recent
overseas trip occurred in 2006 to perform
in the Netherlands.
54) Is it possible to schedule a tour of the
Blues home base?
Unfortunately, no. Due to hectic show and
maintenance schedules, it is extremely difficult
to schedule tours or photographic opportunities.
People who desire to see the Blue Angels
between shows are encouraged to view a practice
demonstration at the National Museum
of Naval Aviation at NAS Pensacola. Practices
are usually held most Tuesday and Wednesday
mornings; weather permitting, during the
show season when the team is home. A tentative
practice schedule may be viewed on the
Blue Angels’ website at www.blueangels.navy.
mil/show/.
55) How can fans obtain a VIP pass for
a show?
Unfortunately, the Blue Angels do not have
“VIP” seating available to the public at any
show. Air shows usually have general seating
available to the public and VIP seating available
for purchase. Information may be found
on individual air show websites. Some show
sites reserve alternate seating areas for a nominal
fee. Interested individuals should contact
the local air show coordinator for additional
information.
56) What is the difference between a
Blue Angel Hornet and the new F/A-
18 E/F Super Hornet?
The Super Hornet is 25% larger, can fly
40% further, remain on station 80% longer
and carry more weapons than its predecessors.
The Super Hornet F/A-18 E/F models have
deployed with battle groups since 2001. While
the Super Hornet has more recent technology,
the Hornet has been a reliable asset for
30 years, and its many capabilities continue to
meet the needs for the demonstration.
57) Will the Blue Angels fly the Super
Hornet?
The decision to transition to the Super
Hornet has yet to be determined.
58) Do you ever fly the jets under
bridges?
The Blue Angels do not fly under any structures
during an air show. Some of the maneuvers
have the appearance that the jets are flying
under structures, but this is always an optical
illusion from the perspective of the crowd. For
safety reasons, the Blue Angels will never fly
underneath bridges or any other structures.
59) Are there ever sonic booms at air
shows?
Sonic booms occur when an aircraft surpasses
the speed of sound. At a Blue Angels air
show, there should never be a sonic boom, as
we are not authorized to exceed the speed of
sound at a show. On occasion, spectators may
have mistaken the sound of engines at a highpower
setting approaching the speed of sound
for a sonic boom.
60) I am in school right now. What
should I be doing now if I want to be a
Blue Angel one day?
The best way to begin the road to a successful
career is to work hard in school, stay
physically active, and refrain from illegal drug
use. Additionally, it is helpful to serve in leadership
roles and extracurricular activities. These
principles apply in attaining a successful career
both inside and outside the military. For more
information about a career in the Navy and
Marine Corps, see your local recruiter or visit
www.navy.com or www.marines.com.
~ www.blueangels.navy.mil
Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Ian Cotter
Cmdr. Frank Weisser and Lt. Tyler Davies,
both solo pilots, maneuver in close proximity
during the Naval Air Facility El Centro Annual
Air Show.

ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 27

M e et Th e Blu e An g e ls
Captain Ryan Bernacchi,
United States Navy
Captain Ryan Bernacchi is a
native of Los Altos, California and
graduated from Mountain View
High School in 1992, where he
lettered in water polo and swimming. He attended
the University of California, San Diego,
and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology
through the Naval Reserve Officer
Training Corps in 1996, and was commissioned
an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.
Ryan reported to Naval Air Station (NAS)
Pensacola, Florida, for aviation indoctrination
in November 1996. He completed primary flight
training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS
Whiting Field, Florida, and completed intermediate
and advanced flight training in the T-2C
Buckeye and T-45C Goshawk at NAS Meridian,
Mississippi. He received his wings of gold in
April 1999.
Ryan then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron
(VFA) 125, the “Rough Raiders,” at NAS
Lemoore, California, for initial training in the
F/A-18 Hornet. Ryan reported to Strike Fighter
Squadron (VFA) 113, the “Stingers,” at NAS
Lemoore, in January 2000, where he served as
the Aircraft Division Officer, Air-to-Air Weapons
Training Officer, Assistant Operations Officer,
and Landing Signals Officer. Ryan completed
two Western Pacific/Arabian Gulf deployments
with USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and flew
in support of Operations Southern Watch, Enduring
Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom.
Ryan was selected to attend the U.S. Navy
Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN), NAS
Fallon, Nevada, in July 2003 and graduated
in September 2003. Ryan then joined the
TOPGUN staff as an instructor pilot and served
as the Navy and Marine Corps subject matter
expert in GPS guided weapons.
Ryan returned to the fleet in May 2006 as
the Training Officer for Strike Fighter Squadron
(VFA) 87, the “Golden Warriors,” at NAS
Oceana, Virginia. In November 2007, Ryan reported
as a Department Head for Strike Fighter
Squadron (VFA) 81, the “Sunliners,” at NAS
Oceana, where he served as Safety Officer,
Operations Officer, and Maintenance Officer.
Ryan deployed with USS Nimitz (CVN 68), to
the Western Pacific while assigned to VFA-81.
Ryan attended the Naval War College,
Newport, Rhode Island, and graduated with
distinction with a Master of Arts degree in
National Security and Strategic Studies in 2010.
In November 2010 he reported to the Chief of
Naval Operations Strategic Studies Group as a
Director Fellow, where he worked on advanced
operational concepts for the Navy.
Ryan reported as Executive Officer of
Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 192, the “World
Famous Golden Dragons,” at NAS Lemoore,
California, in March 2012, and deployed to the
Western Pacific/Arabian Gulf aboard USS John
C. Stennis (CVN 74) in support of Operation
Enduring Freedom. He then commanded VFA-
192 through a transition to the F/A-18E Super
Hornet.
Following his command tour with VFA-192,
Ryan served as a Federal Executive Fellow
at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology,
Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Ryan joined the Blue Angels in September
2015. He has accumulated more than 3,500
flight hours and 600 carrier-arrested landings.
His decorations include the Meritorious Service
Medal, one Individual Air Medal with Combat
“V” (three Strike Flight), four Navy Commendation
Medals, one with Combat “V,” and numerous
unit, campaign, and service awards.
Lieutenant Damon
Kroes, United States
Navy
Lieutenant Damon Kroes is
a native of Fremont, California,
and graduated from Moreau
Catholic High School in June 2000 where he
lettered in soccer, swimming, and cross country.
He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps
Reserve and completed basic training at Marine
Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, in September
2000.
While assigned to Alpha Company, 4th Light
Armored Reconnaissance Battalion at Camp
Pendleton, California, Damon attended San
Diego State University and graduated in May
2006 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political
Science with a Minor in History. As a reservist
in college, Damon was called to active duty
in May 2002 and deployed to South America
as part of MARFOR UNITAS 43-02 from July
to December, 2002. Selected to serve with
the UNITAS Reconnaissance Detachment,
Damon conducted bilateral training exercises
alongside special operations units from the
Dominican Republic, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru,
Chile, and Brazil. In February 2003, Damon
was again called to active duty and deployed
as a Light Armored Vehicle (LAV- 25) scout in
support of Operation Iraqi Freedom with both
Alpha and Delta Companies of the 4th Light
Armored Reconnaissance Battalion from April
to September 2003. In September 2005 Damon
reported to Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd
Marine Regiment in San Bruno, California, and
served as an infantry squad leader until February,
2007.
Damon reported to Naval Air Station Pensacola,
Florida, for Officer Candidate School
in May 2007 and was commissioned as an
Ensign in the U.S. Navy. In September 2007,
Damon reported to aviation indoctrination and
then transferred to NAS Corpus Christi for
primary flight training in the T-34C Mentor. For
advanced flight training, Damon transferred to
NAS Meridian, Mississippi where he flew the
T-45C Goshawk and received his wings of gold
in June 2009.
Damon then reported to Marine Fighter
Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 101, the
“Sharpshooters,” at Marine Corps Air Station
Miramar, California in July 2009 for initial training
in the F/A-18 Hornet. He then reported to
Strike Fighter Squadron 192 (VFA-192), the
“Golden Dragons,” at NAS Lemoore, Califor-
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28 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó

C o n t. from Pg 28
nia in January 2011, where he served as the
Avionics/Armaments (AVARM) Division Officer,
Line Division Officer, Landing Signals Officer,
Schedules Officer, Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground
Weapons and Tactics Officer, and Assistant Operations
Officer. Damon completed two deployments
to the Western Pacific and Middle East
aboard the USS John C. Stennis in Support of
Operations New Dawn and Enduring Freedom.
Damon then reported to Marine Fighter Attack
Training Squadron 101 (VMFAT-101), the
“Sharpshooters,” at MCAS Miramar, California
in April 2014 as an instructor pilot and also
served as Schedules Officer, Assistant Air-to-Air
Phase Head, and Assistant Carrier Qualification
Phase Head.
Damon Joined the Blue Angels in September
2016. He has accumulated more than 1,300
flight hours and 280 carrier arrested landings.
His decorations include a Strike Flight Air Medal,
the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement
Medal, and various personal and unit awards.
Lieutenant Commander
Nate Scott, United States
Navy
Lieutenant Commander Nate
Scott is a native of Danville, California
and graduated from Monte
Vista High School in 2003. He attended the University
of Southern California, and graduated
with a Bachelor of Science in Business through
the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps in
2007, and was commissioned an Ensign in the
U.S. Navy.
Nate reported to Naval Air Station (NAS)
Pensacola, Florida, for aviation indoctrination in
August 2007. He completed primary flight training
in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Corpus
Christ, Texas, and completed intermediate and
advanced flight training in the T-45C Goshawk
at NAS Meridian, Mississippi. He received his
wings of gold in November 2009.
Nate then reported to Strike Fighter
Squadron (VFA) 106, the “Gladiators,” at
NAS Oceana, Virginia, for initial training in
the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Nate reported to
VFA-103, the “Jolly Rogers,” at NAS Oceana in
November 2010, where he served as the Landing
Signals Officer, Air-to- Surface Weapons
Training Officer, Quality Assurance Officer,
Naval Air Training and Operation Procedures
Standardization Officer, and Mess Officer. Nate
completed two Arabian Gulf deployments with
USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) and flew
in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Nate returned to VFA-106 in November
2013 as an instructor pilot and LSO, serving as
Carrier Qualification Phase Head and Assistant
Phase Head, Hornet Avionics Division Officer
and First Lieutenant Division Officer.
Nate joined the Blue Angels in September
2016. He has accumulated more than 1600
flight hours and has 270 carrier-arrested landings.
His decorations include a Strike Flight Air
Medal, a Commendation Medal, a Navy and
Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various
personal and unit awards.
Lieutenant Commander
Lance Benson, United
States Navy
Lieutenant Commander Lance
Benson is a native of McPherson,
Kansas, and graduated
from McPherson High School in 2002, where
he lettered in football. He attended Kansas
State University (KSU), Salina, Kansas, and
graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Airway
Science with a Minor in Business in May 2006.
After serving as a Flight instructor at KSU for
three years, Lance reported to Naval Air Station
(NAS) Pensacola, Florida, for Officer Candidate
School and was commissioned an Ensign in the
U.S. Navy.
Lance reported to NAS Pensacola for aviation
indoctrination in November 2006. He completed
primary flight training in the T-6 Texan II
at Vance Air Force Base, Enid, Oklahoma, and
completed intermediate and advanced flight
training in the T-45C Goshawk at NAS Meridian,
Mississippi. He received his wings of gold
in March 2009.
Lance then reported to Training Squadron
(VT) 9, the “Tigers,” at NAS Meridian as an
instructor pilot. He reported to Strike Fighter
Squadron (VFA) 106, the “Gladiators,” at NAS
Oceana, Virginia, in April 2010 for initial training
in the F/A-18F Super Hornet.
Lance reported to Strike Fighter Attack
Squadron (VFA) 22, the “Fighting Redcocks,”
at NAS Lemoore, California, in February 2011,
where he served as Landing Signals Officer
(LSO), Aircraft Division Officer, Personnel Officer,
Mess Officer, and Joint Mission Planning
System Subject Matter Expert. While assigned
to VFA-22, Lance completed two deployments
aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), and flew in
support of Operations New Dawn and Enduring
Freedom.
Lance then reported to Training Squadron
(VT) 7, the “Eagles,” at NAS Meridian in March
2014 as an instructor pilot, and also served as
LSO, Public Affairs Officer, Mess Officer, and
Formation Stage Head.
Lance joined the Blue Angels in September
2015. He has accumulated more than 2,100
flight hours and 200 carrier-arrested landings.
His decorations include a Strike Flight Air
Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement
Medals, and various personal and unit
awards.
Commander Frank
Weisser, United States
Navy
Commander Frank Weisser is
a native of Atlanta and graduated
from North Springs High School
in 1996, where he lettered in football and track.
He attended the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis,
Maryland, graduated with a Bachelor of
Science in Mathematics in 2000, and was commissioned
as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.
Frank reported to Naval Air Station (NAS)
Pensacola, Florida, for aviation indoctrination
in October 2000. He completed primary flight
training in the T-34C Mentor at NAS Whiting
Field, Florida, and completed advanced flight
training in the T- 2C Buckeye and T-45C Goshawk
at NAS Meridian, Mississippi. He received
his wings of gold in November 2002.
Frank was chosen as a Selectively Retained
Graduate and remained with Training Squadron
(VT) 7, the “Eagles,” at NAS Meridian as an
instructor pilot for the T-45C.
While assigned to VT-7, he served as the
Squadron Facilities Manager and Schedules
Officer.
In June 2004, Frank reported to Strike
Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, the “Gladiators,”
at NAS Oceana, Virginia, for initial training in
the F/A-18C Hornet.
Frank then reported to Strike Fighter
Squadron (VFA) 87, the “Golden Warriors,” at
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C o n t. from Pg 29
NAS Oceana, Virginia, in April 2005, where
he served as Schedules Officer, Avionics/Armament
(AV/ARM) Division Officer, Naval Air
Training and Operation Procedures Standardization
Officer, Assistant Operations Officer,
and Landing Signals Officer. While assigned to
VFA-87, Frank deployed aboard USS Theodore
Roosevelt (CVN 71) in August 2005 and flew
34 combat missions in support of Operation
Iraqi Freedom. He was awarded the Lieutenant
Charles Nelson Award for Junior Officer Leadership,
which contributed to VFA-87 winning a
2005 and 2006 Battle “E” Award for sustained
superior performance in an operational environment
during his tenure.
Frank was selected to join the Blue Angels at
NAS Pensacola in September 2007 and served
as the Narrator, Key Influencer and VIP Pilot,
Opposing Solo, and Lead Solo. While assigned
to the Blue Angels, he earned a master’s
degree in Systems Analysis from the Naval
Postgraduate School, Monterey, California, in
September 2009.
Frank returned to the fleet in February
2011 as a Department Head for Strike Fighter
Squadron (VFA) 97, the “Warhawks,” at NAS
Lemoore, California, where he served as Safety
Officer, Administrative Officer, Operations Officer,
and Maintenance Officer. While assigned
to VFA-97, Frank completed two deployments
aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) to the
Western Pacific/Arabian Gulf in support of
Operations New Dawn and Enduring Freedom.
VFA-97 won a 2013 Battle “E” Award during his
tenure.
Frank then reported to NATO School
Oberammergau, Germany, in December 2013.
While assigned to the school, Frank was Director
of Mobile Training and Education, oversaw
all NATO School Oberammergau training activities
throughout the world, and personally conducted
training in Ethiopia, France, Germany,
and Ukraine.
Frank rejoined the Blue Angels in July 2016.
He has accumulated more than 4,300 flight
hours and 400 carrier-arrested landings. His
decorations include the Defense Meritorious
Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal,
three Strike Flight Air Medals, two Navy and
Marine Corps Commendation Medals, and various
personal and unit awards.
Lieutenant Tyler Davies,
United States Navy
Lieutenant Tyler Davies is a
native of Kennesaw, Georgia,
and graduated from North Cobb
High School in June 2000. He
enlisted in the U.S. Navy and completed basic
training at Recruit Training Command Great
Lakes, Illinois, in August 2000.
Tyler completed Aviation Electronics Technician
“A” School at Naval Aviation Technical
Training Center, Naval Air Station (NAS)
Pensacola, Florida, and reported to NAS
Oceana, Virginia, for Radar Communications
(RADCOM) “C” school. Upon completion of
RADCOM training, he reported to Aviation
Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD),
NAS Oceana, in June 2001. While assigned
to AIMD Oceana, he completed deployments
aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) and
USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in support of multiple
NATO operations.
Tyler reported to Fleet Readiness Center
(FRC) Southwest Site Point Mugu, California, in
September 2004, where he served in the Avionics
Division. In 2007, he was selected as FRC
Southwest Site Point Mugu and Commander
Airborne Early Warning Wing Sailor of the Year.
While assigned to FRC, Tyler attended the
University of La Verne, Riverside, California,
and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in
Organizational Management in May 2007. He
then reported to Naval Station Newport, Rhode
Island, for Officer Candidate School in September
2007 and was commissioned as an Ensign
in the U.S. Navy.
Tyler reported to NAS Pensacola for aviation
indoctrination in January 2008. He completed
primary flight training in the T-34C Mentor at
NAS Whiting Field, Florida, then transferred to
NAS Meridian, Mississippi, for advanced flight
training in the T-45C Goshawk. He received his
wings of gold in June 2010.
Tyler then reported to Strike Fighter
Squadron (VFA) 106, the “Gladiators,” at NAS
Oceana, in July 2010 for initial training in the
F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.
Tyler reported to Strike Fighter Squadron
(VFA) 22, the “Fighting Redcocks,” at NAS
Lemoore, California, in August 2011, where
he served as Assistant Line Division Officer,
Drug and Alcohol Program Awareness Officer,
Motorcycle Safety Officer, Schedules Officer,
Air-to-Ground Training Officer, and a squadron
Forward-Air Controller (Airborne) (FAC(A)).
While assigned to VFA-22, Tyler deployed
aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and flew in
support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Tyler returned to VFA-106 in August 2014 as
an instructor pilot and also served as Auxiliary
Retail Outlet Officer, Drug and Alcohol Program
Awareness Officer, Suicide Prevention Coordinator,
FAC(A), Strike Representative, and
Assistant Strike Phase Head.
Tyler joined the Blue Angels in September
2015. He has accumulated more than 1,500
flight hours and 220 carrier-arrested landings.
His decorations include four Navy and Marine
Corps Achievement Medals, and various personal
and unit awards.
Lieutenant Brandon
Hempler, United States
Navy
Lieutenant Brandon Hempler
is a native of Wamego, Kansas,
and graduated from Wamego
High School in 2002, where he lettered in cross
country. He attended Kansas State University
(KSU), Salina, Kansas, and graduated with a
Bachelor of Science in Airway Science in May
2007. After serving as a flight instructor at KSU
for a semester, Brandon reported to Naval Air
Station (NAS) Pensacola, Florida, for Officer
Candidate School and was commissioned an
Ensign in the U.S. Navy.
Brandon reported to NAS Pensacola for aviation
indoctrination in October 2007. He completed
primary flight training in the T-6 Texan
II at Vance Air Force Base, Enid, Oklahoma,
and completed intermediate and advanced
flight training in the T-45C Goshawk at NAS
Kingsville, Texas. He received his wings of gold
in November 2009.
Brandon then reported to Strike Fighter
Attack Squadron (VFA) 106, the “Gladiators,”
at NAS Oceana, Virginia, in January 2010 for
initial training in the F/A-18E Super Hornet. He
reported to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 31,
the “Tomcatters,” at NAS Oceana, in November
2010, where he served as Schedules Officer,
Line Division Officer, Naval Air Training and
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C o n t. from Pg 30
Operation Procedures Standardization Officer,
Assistant Operations Officer, and Landing
Signal Officer. While assigned to VFA-31,
Brandon completed deployments in the Middle
East aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77)
in support of Operations New Dawn, Enduring
Freedom, and Inherent Resolve.
Brandon joined the Blue Angels in September
2016. He has accumulated more than 2,100
flight hours and 320 carrier-arrested landings.
His decorations include two Strike Flight Air
Medals, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement
Medals, and various personal and unit
awards.
Lieutenant Dave Steppe,
United States Navy
Lieutenant Dave Steppe is a
native of Birmingham, Alabama,
and graduated from Vestavia
Hills High School in 2004, where
he lettered in football. He attended Auburn
University, Auburn, Alabama, graduated with
a Bachelor of Science in Logistics through the
Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps in 2008,
and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S.
Navy.
Dave then reported to Naval Air Station
(NAS) Pensacola, Florida, for aviation indoctrination.
He completed Naval Flight Officer
training in the T-6 Texan, T-1 Jayhawk, T-39
Saberliner, and the T-45 Goshawk. He received
his wings of gold in August 2010.
Dave reported to Electronic Attack Squadron
(VAQ) 129, the “Vikings”, at NAS Whidbey
Island, Washington, for initial training in the E/A-
18G Growler. He then reported to Electronic Attack
Squadron (VAQ) 141, the “Shadowhawks,”
at NAS Whidbey Island, in October 2011, where
he served as Electronic Warfare Officer, Quality
Assurance Officer, Avionics/Armament Division
Officer, Schedules Officer, and Joint Mission
Planning System Subject Matter Expert.
While assigned to VAQ-141, Dave deployed
with USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and
flew in support of Operation New Dawn. He
also served in Atsugi, Japan, and deployed
with USS George Washington (CVN 73), to
complete three cruises in the Western Pacific.
He also participated in the joint force exercises
Valiant Shield, Cope North, Keen Sword, and
other multinational exercises. Dave returned
to VAQ-129 in February 2015 as an Electronic
Warfare Officer instructor and also served as
the Air to Air Phase Head, Schedules Officer,
and Naval Air Training and Operation Procedures
Standardization (NATOPS) Evaluator.
Dave joined the Blue Angels in September
2016. He has accumulated more than 1,400
flight hours and has more than 300 carrierarrested
landings. His decorations include a
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal,
and various personal and unit awards.
Commander Matt Kaslik,
United States Navy
Commander Matt Kaslik is a
native of The Woodlands, Texas,
and graduated from McCullough
High School in 1991, where he
was captain of the varsity football team. He
attended the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis,
Maryland, where he lettered in varsity football,
graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Oceanography
in 1995, and was commissioned an
Ensign in the U.S. Navy.
Matt reported to Naval Air Station (NAS)
Pensacola, Florida, for aviation indoctrination
in January 1996. He completed naval flight
officer training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor, T-1
Jayhawk, T-39G/N Saberliner and the T-A4
Skyhawk. He received his wings of gold in June
1997.
Matt then reported to Electronic Attack
Squadron (VAQ) 129, the “Vikings,” at NAS
Whidbey Island, Washington, for initial training
in the EA-6B Prowler. He reported to Electronic
Attack Squadron (VAQ) 135, the “Black
Ravens,” at NAS Whidbey Island in August
1998, where he served as the Avionics/Armament
Division Officer and Personnel Officer.
While assigned to VAQ-135, Matt completed a
Western Pacific and Arabian Gulf deployment
with USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) in support of
Operation Desert Fox and flew in support of
Operation Southern Watch in Iraq in 1999.
Matt made an expeditionary deployment to
Incirlik Airbase, Turkey, and flew in support of
Operation Northern Watch in Iraq in 2000. He
deployed again with USS Carl Vinson to the
Arabian Sea in 2001 to conduct the first strikes
during the opening days of Operation Enduring
Freedom in Afghanistan, for which VAQ-135
earned the Battle “E” and Safety “S” awards.
Matt was then selected as a Personnel
Exchange Officer to serve with the German Air
Force and reported to the Defense Language
Institute at the Presidio of Monterey, California,
in April 2002. He reported to the German Air
Force Flying Training Center at Holloman Air
Force Base, Alamogordo, New Mexico, to fly
the Panavia 200 Tornado in January 2003. Matt
then reported to Fighter Bomber Squadron 321,
the “Tigers,” at Lechfeld Airbase, Bavaria, Germany,
to fly the Electronic Combat Reconnaissance
Tornado as a Weapons Systems Officer
in July 2003.
Matt reported to Naval Station Mayport,
Florida, and served as an Assistant Air Operations
Officer and on the Bridge Team aboard
USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) in August 2005.
He returned to VAQ-135 in November 2006 as
a Department Head and served as the Safety,
Administrative, and Operations Officer for two
Western Pacific deployments aboard USS
Nimitz (CVN 68) with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11
in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and
Iraqi Freedom.
Matt then reported to Defense Information
Systems Agency (DISA) Pacific, Pearl Harbor,
Hawaii, as a Program Manager in 2009. He deployed
to Iraq as Officer-In- Charge of the DISA
Support Element-Iraq’s long range telecommunications
team, which served in support of
Operation Iraqi Freedom, and soon after served
as DISA Pacific’s Chief of Staff.
Matt reported to USS John C. Stennis (CVN
74) at Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton, Washington,
in June 2012 and served as the Assistant
Air Officer, lead a 650-personnel department,
and completed an eight-month combat Western
Pacific and Arabian Sea deployment in support
of Operation Enduring Freedom. Matt then
reported to the U.S. Naval Academy to serve as
the Military Deputy Director of Athletics in August
2014. He also served as a military instructor
of Ethics and supported the Naval Academy
in earning the Patriot League President’s Cup
for the third straight year. He received his Master
of Arts in International Relations from the
University of Oklahoma in 2011.
Matt joined the Blue Angels in September
2016. He has accumulated more than 2,230
flight hours and 530 carrier-arrested landings.
His decorations include the Defense Meritori-
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C o n t. from Pg 31
ous Service Medal, two Meritorious Service
Medals, five Strike Flight Air Medals, four Navy
and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, one
with Combat “V,” three Navy and Marine Corps
Achievement Medals, and numerous unit, campaign,
and service awards.
LtCol Mark Hamilton,
United States Marine
Corps
LtCol Mark Hamilton is a native
of Becker, Minnesota, and
graduated from Becker High
School in 1996. He attended Purdue University
in West Lafayette, Indiana, and graduated with
a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2000. Mark
was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the
U.S. Marine Corps through the Naval Reserve
Officers Training Corps in 2000 and reported to
The Basic School at Marine Corps Base Quantico,
Virginia, to complete training.
Mark reported to Naval Air Station (NAS)
Pensacola, Florida, for aviation indoctrination
in January 2001. He completed primary flight
training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS
Whiting Field, Florida, and completed advanced
flight training in the T-44 Pegasus while assigned
to Training Squadron (VT) 31 at NAS
Corpus Christi, Texas. He received his wings of
gold in May 2002.
Mark then reported to Marine Aerial Refueler
Transport Training Squadron (VMGRT) 253, the
“Titans,” at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS)
Cherry Point, North Carolina, for initial training
in the KC-130 Hercules. He reported to Marine
Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR)
252, “Otis,” at MCAS Cherry Point, in May
2003, where he served as Ground Safety Officer
and Flight Duty Officer. While assigned to
VMGR-252, Mark deployed twice to Al Asad,
Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Mark reported to Marine Aerial Refueler
Transport Squadron (VMGR) 152, the “Sumos,”
at MCAS Futenma, Japan, in 2007, where he
served as Quality Assurance Officer and Assistant
Maintenance Officer. He also attended
Weapons and Tactics Instructor School and
became the squadron’s Aircrew Training Officer.
Mark then attended Terminal Attack Control
Party School and reported to 8th Marines
in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, where he
served as Assistant Air Officer and deployed to
Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in support of
Operation Enduring Freedom.
Mark returned to VMGR-252 in February
2012 to serve as the Director of Safety and
Survival. He also served as Officer in Charge
for VMGR-252 Detachment Bravo, which supported
the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit and
the newly-formed Special Marine Air Ground
Task Force – Crisis Response, and became
Operations Officer for VMGR-252.
Mark has flown more than 800 combat hours
and also supported numerous operations and
exercises in Alaska, Djibouti, Greece, Guam,
Hawaii, Italy, Iwo Jima, Jordan, Malaysia,
Myanmar, Philippines, Republic of the Marshall
Islands, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Thailand,
United Kingdom, and Wake Island.
Mark joined the Blue Angels in September
2014. He has accumulated more than 4,000
flight hours. His decorations include twelve Air
Medals, three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation
Medals, the Navy and Marine Corps
Achievement Medal, and various personal and
unit awards.
Major Mark Montgomery,
United States Marine
Corps
Major Mark Montgomery is a
native of Cartersville, Georgia,
and graduated from Cartersville
High School in 1997, where he lettered
in football, wrestling, and track. He attended
the University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia,
and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in
Agriculture in 2001. Mark was commissioned
a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps
through the Platoon Leader’s Course in 2002
and reported to The Basic School at Marine
Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, to complete
training.
Mark reported to Naval Air Station (NAS)
Pensacola, Florida, for aviation indoctrination
in April 2003. He completed primary flight
training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor with Training
Squadron (VT) 2 at NAS Whiting Field, Florida,
and completed intermediate and advanced
training in the T-44 Pegasus while assigned
to Training Squadron (VT) 31 at NAS Corpus
Christi, Texas. He received his wings of gold in
September 2004.
Mark then reported to Marine Aerial Refueler
Transport Training Squadron (VMGRT) 253 the
“Titans,” at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS)
Cherry Point, North Carolina, for initial training
in the KC-130 Hercules, where he served as
a Flight Duty Officer. He reported to Marine
Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR)
252, “Otis,” at MCAS Cherry Point, in February
2006, where he served as an Adjutant, Aircrew
Training Officer, and Assistant Operations
Officer. While assigned to VMGR-252, Mark
deployed twice to Iraq in support of Operation
Iraqi Freedom. He then reported to 2nd Battalion,
6th Marines, 2nd Marine Division at Camp
Lejeune, North Carolina, in February 2010,
where he served as a Forward Air Controller
and deployed to Afghanistan
in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.Mark
returned to VMGR-252 in March
2011, where he served as Operations
Officer, Harvest Hercules Armament Weapons
Kit Officer-in-Charge, Maintenance Officer,
and deployed again to Afghanistan in support
of Operation Enduring Freedom. Mark has
2017
B lu e An g e ls
flown more than 1,200 combat hours, to include
numerous operations and exercises in Afghanistan,
Iraq, Italy, Morocco, and Spain.
Mark joined the Blue Angels in September
2015. He has accumulated more than 2,700
flight hours. His decorations include sixteen Air
Medals, two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation
Medals, two Navy and Marine Corps
Achievement Medals, the Combat Action Ribbon,
and various personal and unit awards.
Major Kyle Maschner,
United States Marine
Corps
Major Kyle Maschner is a
native of Scottsdale, Arizona,
and graduated from Horizon
High School in 2001. He enlisted in the U.S
Marine Corps, completed basic training at
Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego in 2003,
and served in the Marine Reserve as a Heavy
Equipment Engineer Operator with Bulk Fuel
Company Alpha and Charlie until 2006. He then
attended Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff,
Arizona, and graduated with a Bachelor of
Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management
in 2006. Kyle was commissioned a Second
Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps through the
Platoon Leader’s Course in 2006 and reported
to The Basic School at Marine Corps Base
Quantico, Virginia, to complete training.
Kyle reported to Naval Air Station (NAS)
Pensacola, Florida, for aviation indoctrination
in June 2007. He completed primary flight
training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor with Training
Squadron (VT) 27 and completed advanced
training in the T-44C Pegasus while assigned
to Training Squadron (VT) 31 at NAS Corpus
Christi, Texas. He received his wings of gold in
January 2009.
Kyle then reported to Marine Aerial Refueler
Transport Squadron (VMGR) 352, the
“Raiders,” at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS)
Miramar, California, for initial flight training in
the KC-130 Hercules and served as Ground
Safety Officer, Quality Assurance Officer, Safety
and Survival Officer, Flight Equipment Officer,
and detachment Maintenance Officer. While
assigned to VMGR-352, he deployed twice to
Afghanistan and once to Africa in support of
Operation Enduring Freedom.
Kyle reported to Training Squadron (VT) 6,
the “Shooters,” at NAS Whiting Field, Florida,
for duty as a primary flight instructor in September
2012. While assigned to VT-6, he served
as the Student Control Officer and squadron
Standardization Officer.
Kyle then reported to 1st Marine Air Wing
(MAW) Okinawa, Japan, in September 2015
where he served as the Japan Geographic
Exercise Officer. While in Okinawa, he coordinated
and participated in multiple exercises in
the region.
Kyle joined the Blue Angels in September
2016. He has accumulated more than 2,500
flight hours. His decorations include eleven Air
Medals, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation
Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps
Achievement Medals, and various personal and
unit awards.
32 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó

The birth of the United States Marine Corps
During the American Revolution, the Continental Congress passes a resolution
stating that “two Battalions of Marines be raised” for service as landing
forces for the recently formed Continental Navy. The resolution, drafted by
future U.S. president John Adams and adopted in Philadelphia, created the
Continental Marines and is now observed as the birth date of the United
States Marine Corps.
Serving on land and at sea, the original U.S. Marines distinguished themselves
in a number of important operations during the Revolutionary War. The
first Marine landing on a hostile shore occurred when a force of Marines under
Captain Samuel Nicholas captured New Province Island in the Bahamas from
the British in March 1776. Nicholas was the first commissioned officer in the
Continental Marines and is celebrated as the first Marine commandant. After
American independence was achieved in 1783, the Continental Navy was
demobilized and its Marines disbanded.
In the next decade, however, increasing conflict at sea with Revolutionary
France led the U.S. Congress to establish formally the U.S. Navy in May 1798.
Two months later, on July 11, President John Adams signed the bill establishing
the U.S. Marine Corps as a permanent military force under the jurisdiction
of the Department of Navy. U.S. Marines saw action in the so-called Quasi-
War with France and then fought against the Barbary pirates of North Africa
during the first years of the 19th century. Since then, Marines have participated
in all the wars of the United States and in most cases were the first soldiers to
fight. In all, Marines have executed more than 300 landings on foreign shores.
Today, there are more than 200,000 active-duty and reserve Marines,
Photo by Cpl. Devan K. Gowans
divided into three divisions stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; Camp
Pendleton, California; and Okinawa, Japan. Each division has one or more
expeditionary units, ready to launch major operations anywhere in the world
on two weeks’ notice. Marines expeditionary units are self-sufficient, with their
own tanks, artillery, and air forces. The motto of the service is Semper Fidelis,
meaning “Always Faithful” in Latin.
~www.history.com
Marines and Sailors with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group stand
in formation for the 241st Birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps on the USS Makin Island (LHD 8), while afloat in
the Pacific Ocean, Nov. 10, 2016. As part of the 11th MEU’s Western Pacific 16-2 deployment to the Pacific and
Central Commands’ areas of operations, Marines with the 11th MEU celebrated the birthday with a morning
physical training session on the flight deck, performing 241 exercises which commemorated 241 years of the
Marine Corps’ existence, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony, where Col. Clay C. Tipton, commanding officer,
11th MEU, addressed the Marines and Sailors of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group/11th MEU.
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ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 33

Matt Younkin is a third generation pilot. He is the son of
Bobby Younkin who is considered to be one of the greatest airshow
pilots of all time.
Matt is also the grandson of Jim Younkin who is well-known
for designing Century and Trutrak autopilots as well as building
replicas of the 1930’s Howard “Mr. Mulligan” and Travel Air
“Mystery Ship” race planes.
Matt learned to fly at the age of 14 in a Piper J-3 Cub. At age
15, the same instructor who taught Bobby how to fly, refined
Matt’s piloting skills. On his sixteenth birthday, Matt soloed his
grandfather’s 1928 Travel Air 4000 biplane.
Matt to date has flown over 85 different types of airplanes
ranging from the Piper Cub to the Boeing B-29. He is also a fully
rated flight instructor, has over 5,000 hours of total flying time,
and currently resides in Siloam Springs, AR.
Matt is also an accomplished radio-controlled model airplane
pilot. Like his father before him, Matt learned most of his
aerobatic skills by flying R/C models and later refined them in
the Super Decathlon. Bobby gave Matt two hours of aerobatic instruction
which focused mainly on slow rolls. Bobby said, “Almost
every aerobatic maneuver is based on a slow roll. If you can master
the slow roll, you can master anything.”
When Matt took the Decathlon out to perfect his slow rolls,
he soon discovered that he could perform every maneuver that
Bobby performed in the airplane at shows, plus a few new ones of
his own.
Matt spent his first couple of years in the industry performing
at airshows in the Super Decathlon and in the world’s only
flying example of the Travel Air “Mystery Ship.” At Sun n Fun
2007, Matt debut his version of the aerobatic act made famous by
his father in the Beech 18. This act continues to be described by
producers and fans alike as one of the most beautiful and graceful
displays the industry has to offer.
Matt’s latest and greatest achievement is perfecting the world’s
only night aerobatic display in a Beech 18. Equipped with over
50 externally visible lights, the top airplane appears to glow in the
dark while the bottom side twinkles violently. Combined with
smoke, noise, choreography, and an incredible musical score, the
Twin Beech Night Spectacular is quickly becoming one of the
Matt Younkin
most sought after acts in the airshow arena.
At Airventure 2012, Matt became the first second-generation
recipient of the coveted Bill Barber Award for Showmanship.
Considered young in the airshow industry by some and a veteran
by others, Matt continues to amaze airshow goers with his unique
ability to capture the crowd in the moment, much the same way
his father Bobby and sister Amanda did for so many years.
Look for Matt and his Twin Beech at an airshow near you for
many years to come.
~www.younkinair.com
Patty Wagstaff
To Patty Wagstaff the sky represents adventure, freedom and
challenge. A six-time member of the US Aerobatic Team, Patty
has won the gold, silver and bronze medals in Olympic-level
international aerobatic competition and is the first woman to win
the title of US National Aerobatic champion and one of the few
people to win it three times.
Patty one of the world’s top airshow pilots, flies thrilling,
low-level aerobatic demonstrations before millions of people each
year. Her breathtaking performances give airshow spectators a
front-row seat view of the precision and complexity of modern,
unlimited hard-core aerobatics. Her smooth aggressive style sets
the standard for performers the world over.
Born in the USA, Patty grew up in and around airplanes. Moving
to Japan when she was nine years old where her father was a
Captain for Japan Air Lines. Her earliest memories include sitting
with her father at the controls of his airplanes. At ten years old
34 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó
when her father let her take the controls of his
DC-6, her lifelong love affair with airplanes
began.
From Japan her travels took her across
Southeast Asia, Europe and to Australia where
she lived and traveled up the west coast in a
small boat. In 1979 she moved to Alaska and
moved to a small town in the southwest part
of the state, Dillingham, where she worked for
the Bristol Bay Native Association. Her job
involved traveling to each of the remote villages
in the region, areas only accessible by air.
Patty's first experience with bush flying was
not a positive one. The first airplane she chartered
for her job crashed on take off, so Patty
decided to learn to fly herself, hiring friend and
later husband, Bob, to travel with her in his
Cessna 185 floatplane. Since then she earned her Commercial,
Instrument, Seaplane and Commercial Helicopter Ratings. She is
a Flight and Instrument Instructor and is rated and qualified to fly
many airplanes, from World War II fighters to jets. Patty's sister,
Toni, is also a pilot and a Captain for Continental Airlines..
Though she had never seen aerobatics, a lifelong curiosity led
her to attend her first Airshow in British Columbia in 1983, where
she saw aerobatic pilots perform and promised herself "I can do
that!" By 1985, five years after gaining her pilot's license, she
earned a spot on the US Aerobatic Team.
Patty's skill is based on years of training and experience. She is a
six-time recipient of the "First Lady of Aerobatics" Betty Skelton
Award. In July 2004, Patty was inducted into the National Aviation
Hall of Fame and was the recipient of the National Air and
Space Museum's Award for Current Achievement in 1994. Having
received many awards for her flying, she is particularly proud
of receiving the Airshow industry's most prestigious award, the
"Sword of Excellence", and the "Bill Barber Award for Showmanship".
Recently she was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award
from the Air Force Association.
In March, 1994, her airplane, the Goodrich Extra 260, went
on display in the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum in
Washington DC. You can see Patty's airplane and exhibit in the
Pioneers of Flight Gallery.
From 1999-2006 Patty was Raytheon’s (now Hawker Beechcraft’s)demo
pilot for their T6A/B Texan II military trainer and
light attack aircraft, performing in international Airshows such as
Paris, Singapore and Farnborough. Today she continues to coach
their Demo Team.
For over ten years, Patty has traveled to East Africa to give
bush, recurrency and aerobatic training to the pilots of the Kenya
Wildlife Service (KWS) who protect Kenya’s elephants, rhino and
other natural resources from poachers.
In 2010 Patty started flying for Cal Fire as an Air Attack pilot
in the OV-10 Bronco. Cal Fire pilots fly both the OV-10 and the
S2T Tanker out of 13 different bases helping keep California safe
from fires and supporting firefighters on the ground. After flying
for Cal Fire for three years, she has decided to return to Florida to
start an aerobatic school, “Patty Wagstaff Aerobatic School” in St.
Augustine, located at Southeast Aero, the U.S. Distributor for the
Extra Aircraft and she continues to fly airshows around the world.
Continuing a life of adventure, when she's not flying you can
find her riding hunter/jumper equestrian horses, hanging out with
her Jack
Russell Terriers and her parrot, Buddha; riding motorcycles,
traveling, writing about her experiences in aviation for her column
"Let it Roll" in Plane and Pilot Magazine, working out and
practicing yoga.
~www.pattywagstaff.com

ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 35

Randy Ball
Randy W. Ball / MiG Pilot, is North America’s Premier Jet Demonstration Pilot. Randy has
performed well over 1,000 performances to date! No other North American Jet Demo pilot even
comes close to that number of performances. In fact, Randy is the only Jet Demo pilot (military or
civilian) to be granted both a day and night unlimited aerobatic rating in jet fighters by the FAA.
He has flown over 42 different types of aircraft, manufactured in nine countries.
As a youngster Randy’s father took him flying occasionally, and he spent countless hours with
one of his heroes, his Great Uncle Gilbert Ball, who flew 56 missions over Europe flying the B-17
Flying Fortress. Even before college, Randy knew he wanted to fly. By the time he was 13 years
old, he had already taken off and landed a plane with his father and soloed at the age of 18. Randy
volunteered to work in his first air show in 1982 and flew in his first air show more than 26 years
ago. He now performs throughout North America, from Canada to Mexico.
• Over 31 years as a pilot, today an airline captain
• Over 26 years of air show experience
• Over 1,000 performances (Most of any US Jet Demo Pilot)
• Over 1,000 hours in Russian Jet Fighters- (Highest of any Western Pilot)
• Over 14,000 hours total flying time
• Flown over 42 different types of aircraft manufactured in 9 different countries
• Level I (unlimited) Jet Aerobatic Day and Nigh (The only Jet Pilot in North America)
• Only MiG-17 and pilot to fly as a “threat/aggressor” aircraft with the USAF F-4 Phantom
while flying in Air Shows and on Film
• Functional test pilot on a number of MIG Fighter aircraft, including Russia's first all-weather
interceptor, theMiG-17PF and is still the only pilot in North American to have ever flown this
MIG variant
• A.C.E., Aerobatic Competence Examiner (prop and jet warbirds)
• Former ICAS safety board member
• Board Member – Historical Aviation Memorial Museum in Tyler, Texas
• Founder and Director – “Thunder Over Cedar Creek Lake” Air Show (fundraiser for three
military charities)
• Randy has flown as the enemy aircraft with the USAF F-4 both for air shows and on film. His
solo demo is designed to resemble the tactical demo of the F-16 Falcon, the first fighter that could
out-turn the Vietnam era MiG-17. During his demo in the MiG-17F, he routinely pulls 8gs, and
reaches speeds approaching 700 mph, all while sometimes flying less than 100 feet off the ground.
He likes to spend time with Civil Air Patrol Cadets and the Boy Scouts, and when asked what
is his favorite maneuver, he says “the vertical A/B roll”. When asked what his favorite air show is,
he says “It’s the one where I can have access to the fans, especially the kids. It is the kids who make
all the work worth it. They are the next generation, and the one hope I have is to inspire them in a
positive way . . . to fly.”
~www.fighterjets.com/pilot randy ball
Rob’s rise to the top started as a young airshow fan
in his native New England. Earning his pilot’s license
while still a teenager, Rob began flying aerobatics almost
immediately, all while building valuable flight time and
experience as a corporate pilot, commuter pilot, banner
tower, flight instructor, ferry pilot, and operating his own
aerobatic flight school. Now in his 15th year as a full-time
airshow pilot, Rob has distinguished himself by blazing
a trail of innovation, developing maneuvers never before
seen at an airshows. “One of my goals is to take aerobatics
to the next level,” Rob explains. “I want to push the limits
of what can be done.” But while his impact and influence
on the airshow community is undeniable, his remarkable
skills at the controls of his MXS-RH are matched with
a humble and approachable demeanor that has forged a
unique connection with countless fans the world over.
Rob Holland of Rob Holland Ultimate Airshows
Rob's accomplishments:
• Four-time, consecutive, World 4-minute Freestyle
Champion*
• Seven-time, consecutive, U.S. National Aerobatic
Champion*
• Eight-time, U.S. 4-minute Freestyle Champion*
• 2015 World Air Games Freestyle Gold Medalist
• 2012 Art Scholl Award for Showmanship Recipient
• 2008 World Advanced Aerobatic Champion
• Seven-time U.S. Aerobatic Team Member
• 21 Medals in International Competition (10 Gold)
*Only pilot in history to accomplish
~www.ultimateairshows.com
36 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó
Rob Holland

Bob Carlton
Bob Carlton began flying in 1979 at the
age of 19. He has since logged over 2000
hours in a wide variety of aircraft and holds
a commercial pilot certificate. Bob has
flown hang gliders, airplanes, helicopters,
and sailplanes from hundreds of sites in the
US, Canada, Mexico and Australia. Bob has
flown airshows professionally since 1993.
He lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico with
his wife Laurie and their dogs, Ginger &
Dewey. He is a member of SSA and ICAS.
Bob is one of the most versatile airshow
performers in North America. He began
flying airshows in his Salto sailplane, and
over the years has continued to add innovative
performances such as barnstormin'
biplane aerobatics, helicopter sailplane
tow, night aerobatics with strobes & pyro
and the world's only twin jet sailplane.
The tradition of innovation continues with
the recent addition of the Super Salto jet
sailplane, with more power, more speed and
more aerobatic capability than any other
sailplane on the planet!
​Bob is the recipient of the 2015 Bill
Barber Award for Showmanship.
Bob Carlton is a retired rocket scientist
for a major national laboratory.
~www.vertigoairshows.com
As the recipient of the 2013 Bill
Barber Award for Showmanship and the
2015 Art Scholl Award, Skip Stewart
has proven to be one of the most
entertaining Airshow pilots in the world
today.
With over ten thousand hours of
flying experience, being an Airline
Transport Pilot, Boeing 727, and MD-
11 Captain, a Certified Flight Instructor,
having owned and operated an aerobatic
flight school, earned Gold Medals in
regional aerobatic competitions, served as
Chief Pilot for a Fortune 100 company
and with more than fourteen years entertaining
airshow fans around the World,
Skip feels comfortable saying that he is
one of the very best in the business today.
Skip's flying has been featured in
magazines that include Plane & Pilot,
Smithsonian Air & Space, AOPA,
Sports Illustrated, World Airshow News,
Auto Pilot, as well as in multiple other
domestic and international publications.
Skip Stewart is the first pilot to fly an
airplane under a jumping motorcycle at
an Airshow and he also flies with several
other pilots forming shows such as the
renowned TinStix of Dynamite Act.
~www.prometheusbiplane.com
Skip Stewart
ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 37

38 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó

History of
Veterans
Day
In November 1919, President Wilson
proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration
of Armistice Day with the following
words: “To us in America, the reflections
of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn
pride in the heroism of those who died in the
country’s service and with gratitude for the
victory, both because of the thing from which
it has freed us and because of the opportunity
it has given America to show her sympathy
with peace and justice in the councils of the
nations . . . .”
An Act (52 Stat. 351; 5 U. S. Code, Sec.
87a) approved May 13, 1938, made the 11th
of November in each year a legal holiday — a
day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace
and to be thereafter celebrated and known as
“Armistice Day.”
Armistice Day was primarily a day set aside
to honor veterans of World War I, but in 1954,
after World War II had required the greatest
mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and
airmen in the Nation’s history; after American
forces had fought aggression in Korea, the
83rd Congress, at the urging of the veterans
service organizations, amended the Act of
1938 by striking out the word “Armistice”
and inserting in its place the word “Veterans.”
With the approval of this legislation (Public
Law 380) on June 1, 1954, November 11th
became a day to honor American veterans of
all wars.
Later that same year, on October 8th, President
Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the first
“Veterans Day Proclamation” which stated: “In
order to insure proper and widespread observance
of this anniversary, all veterans, all veterans’
organizations, and the entire citizenry will
wish to join hands in the common purpose.
Toward this end, I am designating the Administrator
of Veterans’ Affairs as Chairman
of a Veterans Day National Committee, which
shall include such other persons as the Chairman
may select, and which will coordinate at
the national level necessary planning for the
observance. I am also requesting the heads of
all departments and agencies of the Executive
branch of the Government to assist the
National Committee in every way possible.”
In 1958, the White House advised VA’s
General Counsel that the 1954 designation of
Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Bill Moran, left, Rear Adm. Sean Buck, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th
Fleet, Rear Adm. Bette Bolivar, commander of Navy Region Southeast, and a Marine render honors during a Memorial Day ceremony at the
Veterans Memorial Wall in Jacksonville, Fla. The wall, which pays tribute to fallen service members who called Jacksonville home, hosted military
and city leaders, veterans and nearly 3,000 patriotic guests who gathered to pay their respect to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to their
nation.
the VA Administrator as Chairman of the Veterans
Day National Committee applied to all
subsequent VA Administrators. Since March
1989 when VA was elevated to a cabinet level
department, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs
has served as the committee’s chairman.
The Uniform Holiday Bill (Public Law
90-363 (82 Stat. 250)) was signed on June 28,
1968, and was intended to ensure three-day
weekends for Federal employees by celebrating
four national holidays on Mondays: Washington’s
Birthday, Memorial Day, Veterans Day,
and Columbus Day.
It was thought that these extended weekends
would encourage travel, recreational
and cultural activities and stimulate greater
industrial and commercial production. Many
states did not agree with this decision and
continued to celebrate the holidays on their
original dates.
The first Veterans Day under the new
law was observed with much confusion on
October 25, 1971. It was quite apparent that
the commemoration of this day was a matter
of historic and patriotic significance to a great
number of our citizens, and so on September
20th, 1975, President Gerald R. Ford signed
Photos by Seaman Michael Lopez
Sailors from Navy Band Southeast march down the street and perform during Jacksonville's
annual Veterans Day Parade.
Public Law 94-97 (89 Stat. 479), which returned
the annual observance of Veterans Day
to its original date of November 11, beginning
in 1978. This action supported the desires of
the overwhelming majority of state legislatures,
all major veterans service organizations
and the American people.
Veterans Day continues to be observed on
November 11, regardless of what day of the
week on which it falls. The restoration of the
observance of Veterans Day to November 11
not only preserves the historical significance
of the date, but helps focus attention on the
important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration
to honor America’s veterans for their
patriotism, love of country, and willingness to
serve and sacrifice for the common good.
~www.va.gov
ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó 39

40 ó 2017 NAS Jax Air Show ó