The Blue Angels
Learn about the Blue Angels!
When was the Blue Angels formed?
The Blue Angels were formed in 1964. It is the second oldest formal flying aerobatic team in the world. They flew the F/A-18 Hornet aircraft.
Who's idea was this?
At the end of World War II, Chester W. Nimitz ordered a flight demonstration team. They flew the Grumman F6F Hellcat first and then the Grumman F8F Bearcat. At the end of the 1940's they flew the F95-2 Panther.
Who flys them?
The Commading Officer flies the number 1 jet. The Navy and Marine corps jet pilots with an aircraft carrier qualification can fly jets 2-7. Number 8 is a Navel Flight Officer or Weapon Systems Officer.
When did they do this?
They first flew the jets in 1946. This year is their 70th anniversary. They have performed for 484 million fans. They perform in 34 cities in the United States.
Who repairs them?
A selected enlisted personnel 3 year application to help. The People that are selected are volunteers and they help with maintenance and support.
Is it just Navy planes and jets?
It's not just the Navy's jets and planes, it is also the Military's jets too. The Marines fly a jet called C-BOT Hercules aircraft also known as Fat Albert.
BLUE ANGELS - Insane Footage Takes You Inside the Cockpit
Fun Facts
1. The Blue Angels are the second oldest, formal flying aerobatic team in the world.
2. The flew the jets for 70 years.
3. The Marines fly jets in the Blue Angels too. It's not just the Navy.
4. Volunteers help with the jets
5. One of the Military's jets, C-BOT is nicknamed Fat Albert.
6. Blue Angels perform in 34 cities in the United States.
7. In 2006 jet fuel was $2-$3. Now it is $7.
8. In training they use 28.8 million gallons of jet fuel.
9. Every year they fly over the field at the Super Bowl after the National Anthem.
Bibliography
"Blue Angels." Blue Angels. Web. 13 Jan. 2016. <blueangels.navy.mil>.