Team Will 'Maintain Proficiency' Flying At Pensacola, FL

The sequester has officially killed the Blue Angles air show season, with the Navy announcing Tuesday that it was cancelling the remaining 2013 performances of its Flight Demonstration Squadron. The squadron will continue to train to maintain flying proficiency until further notice at its home station in Pensacola, FL.

Recognizing budget realities, current Defense policy states that outreach events can only be supported with local assets at no cost to the government. This is one of many steps the Navy is taking to ensure resources are in place to support forces operating forward now and those training to relieve them.
The Navy believes there is value in demonstrating the professionalism and capabilities of our Navy and Marine Corps Naval Aviation team, thus inspiring future generations of Sailors and Marines. The Navy intends to continue aerial demonstrations in the future as the budget situation permits.

On its Facebook page, the Blue Angels said:

"The Blue Angels are disappointed in this decision but recognize this is one of many steps the Navy is taking to ensure resources are in place to support our forces operating forward now and those training to relieve them.

"The team will continue to sign autographs at the National Naval Aviation Museum Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. The Blue Angels team will also explore other community outreach activities near their home station of Naval Air Station Pensacola.

"The Navy believes there is value in demonstrating the professionalism and capabilities of our Navy and Marine Corps team, thus inspiring future generations of Sailors and Marines. The Navy intends to continue aerial demonstration in the future when the budget situation permits."

FMI: www.blueangels.navy.mil