The Blue Angels: Precision and Patriotism

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels brought their unique blend of precision and patriotism to the skies. Flying the F/A-18 Super Hornets, the team performed close-formation maneuvers, maintaining perfect synchronization as they soared over Pensacola. Their impressive tight formations and intricate maneuvers reflected the intense training and teamwork within the squadron. For many attendees, witnessing the Blue Angels’ flight over the Gulf Coast was a profound reminder of the dedication and heroism embodied by our armed forces.

Photograph Credit: Joel Edwards 2024

Here's a complete list of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels officers who participated in the 2024 NAS Pensacola Homecoming Air Show on November 1-2:

U.S. Navy Blue Angels 2024 Pilots and Support Officers

1. #1 | CAPT Alexander "Scribe" Armatas - Flight Leader / Commanding Officer

   • Hometown: Skaneateles, New York

2. #2 | LCDR Jack Keilty - Right Wing

   • Hometown: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

3. #3 | LCDR Wes Perkins - Left Wing

   • Hometown: Georgetown, Texas

4. #4 | LCDR Amanda Lee - Slot Pilot

   • Hometown: Mounds View, Minnesota

5. #5 | LCDR Griffin Stangel - Lead Solo

   • Hometown: Madison, Wisconsin

6. #6 | CDR Thomas Zimmerman - Opposing Solo

   • Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland

7. #7 | LT Connor O'Donnell - Narrator

   • Hometown: Freeport, Maine

8. #8 | LCDR Brian Vaught - Events Coordinator

   • Hometown: Englewood, Colorado

9. CDR Bryce Aubuchon - Executive Officer

   • Hometown: Washington, Missouri

10. MAJ Josh Soltan - Lead C-130 "Fat Albert" Pilot

    • Hometown: Spokane, Washington

11. CAPT Samuel Petko - C-130 "Fat Albert" Pilot

    • Hometown: Osceola, Indiana

12. CAPT Isaac Becker - C-130 "Fat Albert" Pilot

    • Hometown: Austin, Texas

13. CDR Greg Jones - Maintenance Officer

    • Hometown: Cary, North Carolina

14. LCDR Natalia Luchetti - Assistant Maintenance Officer

    • Hometown: Mayagüez, Puerto Rico

15. LCDR Philippe Warren - Flight Surgeon

    • Hometown: Williamsburg, Virginia

16. LTJG Mara Mason - Supply Officer

    • Hometown: Dayton, Ohio

17. LT Ben Bushong - Public Affairs Officer

    • Hometown: Hagerstown, Maryland

Each of these officers played an integral role in the success of the 2024 Pensacola Homecoming Air Show, demonstrating dedication, skill, and professionalism in representing the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.

Blue Angels Manuevers

The Thunderbirds: A Display of Heroism and Power

Joining the Blue Angels were the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, who showcased the speed, power, and agility of the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Known for its rapid maneuverability, the F-16 enabled the Thunderbirds to execute high-speed passes and complex formations with exceptional grace and control. The Thunderbirds’ performance highlighted the strength of the U.S. Air Force and the skill of its pilots, offering audiences an inspiring display of courage and precision.

Meet the Thunderbirds 2024 Pilot Team

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, officially known as the "U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron," are led this year by Lt Col Nathan Malafa in the role of Commander and Leader. Known for his keen leadership and precision flying, Lt Col Malafa guides the team through complex routines with the skill that comes from years of dedication and discipline.

Photograph Credit: Dianna Lantz-Power 2024

Each Thunderbird pilot plays a unique role in the squadron's iconic formations:

1. Lt Col Nathan Malafa (#1) - Commander/Leader: Directs the squadron in all maneuvers.
2. Maj Zachary Taylor (#2) - Left Wing Pilot: Flies in tight formations off the lead’s left wing, showcasing disciplined precision.
3. Maj Tyler Clark (#3) - Right Wing Pilot: Mirrors Taylor on the right wing, emphasizing symmetry in formation.
4. Maj Jake Impellizzeri (#4) - Slot Pilot: Adds depth to the Diamond Formation, demonstrating tight coordination in maneuvers.
5. Maj Eric Tise (#5) - Lead Solo Pilot: Wows the crowd with daring stunts and high-speed passes, setting up opposing maneuvers with #6.
6. Maj Jeffrey Downie (#6) - Opposing Solo Pilot: Complements Tise in the opposing solo role, together delivering the thrilling solo passes that bring the crowd to their feet.
7. Lt Col Taylor Wight (#7) - Operations Officer: Oversees coordination of the performance, ensuring flawless execution of each show.
8. Maj Bryce Turner (#8) - Advance Pilot/Narrator: Arrives ahead of the main team to prepare logistics and narrates the performances, enhancing the audience’s experience.

Photograph Credit: Dianna Lantz-Power 2024

Civilian Pilots Take Flight: Skip Stewart, Rob Holland, Redline and More

This year’s show was further elevated by the incredible skill of civilian performers like Skip Stewart Airshows and Rob Holland Aerosports:

1. Skip Stewart Airshows

   • Pilot: Skip Stewart
   • Aircraft: Pitts S-2S
   • Known for his high-energy and adrenaline-fueled aerobatics, Skip Stewart thrilled the audience with his dynamic performance in the Pitts S-2S. His daring maneuvers included gravity-defying rolls, flips, and stalls, demonstrating both his exceptional skill and the incredible agility of his biplane. Stewart’s high-octane routine had spectators on the edge of their seats, adding a thrilling edge to the event.

2. Rob Holland Aerosports

   • Pilot: Rob Holland
   • Aircraft: MXS-RH
   • Rob Holland, a multi-time aerobatic champion, showcased his extraordinary talent in the MXS-RH, a custom-built aerobatic aircraft designed for extreme precision and performance. Known for his revolutionary maneuvers, Rob’s routine featured rapid rolls, inverted spins, and signature moves that challenged traditional aerobatic boundaries. His performance highlighted not only his unparalleled skill but also the technical brilliance of the MXS-RH, captivating the crowd with each daring maneuver.

Redline and Other Civilian Highlights

Adding to the excitement were other skilled civilian performers:

• Redline Aerobatics with Ken Rieder and Adam Baker in custom-built Van’s RV-8s executed synchronized formations and close-flying routines that mesmerized the crowd.
• Matheny Airshows showcased Tanner Matheny in a vintage North American Navion named “Olivia,” offering graceful aerobatics that reflected the timeless charm of this classic aircraft.
• Ghostwriter Air Shows featured Nathan Hammond in his 1943 Super Chipmunk, combining aerobatics with nighttime pyrotechnics for an unforgettable spectacle.
• RAD Aerosports with Jeff Boerboon flying the unique Yak-110—a combined twin Yak-55 setup—demonstrated innovation and technical excellence through stunning maneuvers.
• Adam Baker Airshows rounded out the roster with Baker’s high-energy aerobatic sequences in the Extra 330, showcasing rapid spins and rolls that underscored his skill.

A Celebration of Camaraderie and Professionalism

The Pensacola Homecoming Air Show was not just a showcase of aerial acrobatics but also a celebration of the camaraderie and professionalism shared among pilots, crew members, and spectators. Military and civilian pilots alike demonstrated mutual respect and admiration for each other’s skills and dedication. The event served as a gathering point for aviation enthusiasts, reinforcing the unity and passion that defines the aviation community.

Photograph Credit: Joel Edwards 2024

Precision and Determination in Every Maneuver

The performances of the Blue Angels, Thunderbirds, and civilian pilots like Skip Stewart and Rob Holland were a vivid showcase of focus, timing, and control. Each pilot’s intense dedication to their craft was evident in every maneuver, from the tight formations of the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds to the gravity-defying aerobatics of Stewart, Holland, and others. This event celebrated the commitment, excellence, and determination that unites both military and civilian aviators.

The 2024 Pensacola Homecoming Air Show was a spectacular event, leaving audiences inspired and amazed by the skill and heroism on display. From the power and precision of the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds to the daring performances of Skip Stewart, Rob Holland, and other civilian pilots, the show was a true celebration of aviation’s finest. This annual event in Pensacola served as a fitting tribute to the passion, professionalism, and teamwork that propel these elite aviators skyward.