Wants To Draw From Bigger Pool Of Sailors And Marines

The Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron (Blue Angels) is encouraging qualified Sailors and Marines to apply for the 2006 season. The application deadline is April 1, 2005, and selection results will be available June 1.

According to Chief Aviation Electrician's Mate (AW) Louis Arrazola, the Blue Angels' command career counselor and applications chief petty officer, there are open billets for E-5 and E-6 aviation machinist's mates, E-4 through E-6 aviation electrician's mates, E-4 and E-5 aviation structural mechanics, E-4 and E-5 aviation electronics technicians, E-5 aviation maintenance administrationmen, E-5 storekeepers, E-5 and E-6 photographer's mates, E-5 and E-6 hospital corpsmen with an 8406 NEC, and E-5 through E-7 yeomen (YN).

Yeoman billets are Type 1 shore duty, and only YNs completing a sea duty tour may apply. A normal tour of duty is three years and is considered Type 2 sea duty for rotational purposes. Outstanding E-4 performers will be considered.

"We are looking for motivated, hard-charging Sailors and Marines with outgoing personalities to represent the pride and professionalism found throughout today's Navy," Arrazola said. "Our team of Navy and Marine Corps professionals is a direct reflection of personnel currently stationed around the world displaying honor, courage, and commitment on a daily basis to uphold our nation's values and ideals."

Command Master Chief (AW) Kevin Harris said applicants have to be willing to go above and beyond the call of duty.

"This team is filled with traditions, pride and most of all team spirit," Harris said. "We are looking for Sailors and Marines to go that extra mile and are ready to be called upon at a moment's notice. If you have that team spirit, you could be the next Blue Angel."

Blue Angels crew coordinator, Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class (AW) Calvin Carter, said applicants have to be good examples of today's Navy.

"Although helpful, F/A-18 Hornet experience is not required," he said. "However, we are looking for sharp and motivated men and women."

"This is a great opportunity to showcase the professionalism the Navy and Marine Corps have to offer," Arrazola said. "It is also a great chance to travel throughout the United States and Canada."

FMI: www.blueangels.navy.mil