Says Civilian Life Will Offer Personal And Professional Opportunities

Capt. Gregory McWherter, the former commander and lead pilot of the Blue Angels, has announced that he will be retiring from the Navy after 25 years in uniform.

In a post on the "Support Boss Greg McWherter" Facepook page, McWherter wrote that the development is "wonderful" for him and his family ... "both personally and professionally, the news certainly gives me a reason to reflect on the past 25 years.

"I would be lying if I said Carrier Aviation and the mission of our Naval Service weren't important to me...they were, are, and always will be. And yes, the flying was a blast. But my memories aren't filled with catapult launches, arrested landings, missions, and air shows. It's filled with faces and names...those people that I was privileged enough to meet, know, and work alongside over the course of two and a half decades. Women, men, civilian, military, officer and enlisted; just the most amazing collection of human beings who did much, asked for little, and taught me more than you can imagine every single day. We were blessed indeed with this opportunity and can't thank these people enough!

"For those who may be interested, we will be having a retirement ceremony on 27 June (1 pm) at the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola," McWherter wrote. "I know this is short notice, but hopefully some of you will find yourselves in the local area in late June. Either way, all friends are welcome ... no invitation required."

A year ago, McWherter was officially reprimanded by the Navy for allowing a culture of sexual harassment to continue in the Blue Angels organization during two stints as its commander between 2008 and 2012.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.facebook.com/SupportBossMcWherter?fref=nf