Those Who Have Laid Down Their Lives For Our Country Deserve Your Respect on Memorial Day
Memorial Day first became an American tradition as Decoration Day during the 1860s to memorialize those who died in battle during the American Civil War and to place flowers at their graves. There is some debate about exactly when and where the observance was first proclaimed, but suffice it to say that Memorial Day was, and still is, meant to be a date set aside to render honors to those who have given their last full measure of devotion to this country. It’s not just a three-day weekend and it’s not just about barbecues and beer, parades and concerts, or the spectacle of the Indianapolis 500.
Official US Army photograph
One Day Set Aside For a Very Special Purpose
Memorial Day is a day to remember with respect and reverence those members of the military who laid down their lives for our freedom. Let that sink in. These days we are so distracted, so saturated by social media and fake news, so overwhelmingly desensitized to the true meaning of Memorial Day that a reminder seems called for. Summer in these United States of America actually starts in mid-June. On any given day over the next few months we’ll celebrate other days like International Hamburger Day, National Brisket Day, Whooping Crane Day, and even Slugs Return From Capistrano Day. But not on the last Monday in May.
Official US Army photograph
Not About Those Who Served or Serve.
What Memorial Day is not about are the men and women who served in the military or serve today; not about first responders, those who serve or have served the public in other ways, or other groups of people who richly deserve the nation’s respect and recognition. But, respectfully, that’s what Veterans Day is for. Memorial Day and Veterans Day are distinctly different in intent and scope, yet similar enough that some combine the two- and there’s really nothing wrong with that. Many of us recognize those who made the ultimate sacrifice for this country, those who served, those who still serve, and others worthy of recognition much more frequently than one day a year. So celebrate, safely, but recognize what (and whom) you’re celebrating.
image via USMC/DVIDS
Costly Conflicts When America Was Young
During the Revolutionary War approximately 8,000 patriots died in battle. During the War of 1812, 2,260 members of the military were lost. The Mexican-American War cost 1,733 lives lost in combat. The Civil War was the second-costliest in our nation’s history- in large part because the majority of the 214,940 combatants killed were American. The Spanish-American War and the Philippine-American Wars sent 385 and 1,020 members of the military to their graves respectively.
Official US Navy photograph
World Wars, Costly Wars
World War I, the “war to end all wars”, cost the lives of 53,402 American service personnel with a new category of statistic- the missing, of which 3,350 were found to be. World War II was astronomically costly. 291,580 American armed service personnel died fighting the Axis powers. More than a million were wounded and 30,315 were listed as missing. Korea resulted in another 33,684 combat deaths with 92,315 wounded and 4,761 missing in action.
SMYRNA, Tenn. — A $1 million memorial designed to honor the legacy of a fallen Blue Angels pilot is poised for dedication as a community gives back to the flight squadron who has entertained and inspired its citizens for two decades.
A captain in the U.S. Marines, Jeffrey “Kooch” Kuss was a decorated pilot who had logged nearly 1500 flight hours and 175 aircraft carrier landings. Tragically, his life was cut short two years ago, only seconds after taking off on a Blue Angels practice flight from the Smyrna Airport.
The government and citizens of Smyrna, located south of Nashville, have dedicated their time and money to honor Capt. Kuss and recognize his distinguished military service. As of May 22, the memorial team had raised $1.27 million of the $1.3 million needed to complete and maintain the memorial site.
The Jeff Kuss USMC Memorial will be dedicated on June 9, 2018, in Smyrna, Tenn. (Kuss Memorial)
“The one thing we started hearing (after the crash) was what are we going to do as a comunity to celebrate Jeff Kuss’ life,” said Smyrna Mayor Mary Reed. “They wanted to see some type of memorial that they could physically go to… we want everybody to feel like this is there memorial.”
Located at the Lee Victory Recreation Park, the Capt. Jeff Kuss USMC Memorial dedication ceremony will be held on Saturday, June 9, at 10 a.m. The public is invited to the event and officials ask attendees to wear their blue and gold.
Topped with a real F/A-18C Hornet (S/N 163498) on loan from the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, the aerodynamic-styled memorial is located not far from the end of the runway he last departed. The jet is poised high above the ground perched a top a pedestal pointed skyward.
“Jeff was my inspiration and the outpouring of support from the people of Tennessee has been profoundly humbling,” Christina Kuss, wife of Capt. Kuss and mother of their two children, said recently. “You all have wrapped our family in so much love. We are inspired and we are grateful. This memorial is a wonderful tribute to Jeff’s life and distinguished service. I am hopeful it will inspire and encourage the children who see it to pursue their dreams as Jeff did.”
Capt. Jeff Kuss meets with Blue Angels fans following their performance at El Centro in 2016. (U.S. Navy)
Capt. Kuss’ 20 months as a member of the Navy’s Flight Demonstration Squadron was a moment in his military career he had worked hard for to achieve. In 2009, he earned his wings of gold, and three years later, he graduated from the Navy Fighter Weapon School known as Top Gun.
Capt. Kuss first served as the Blue Angels narrator and advanced pilot during the 2015 season prior to being promoted to the opposing solo pilot — an advancement he took with pride. “Any position on here, whether you’re pushing a broom or flying a jet, it’s an honor,” Kuss told this aerospace journalist a few months before the accident. “I’m very excited and cannot wait.”
In the midst of the Blue Angels 70th anniversary season, the team arrived on June 2, 2016, to perform at the Great Tennessee Air show in Smyrna. The team’s 10 a.m. arrival was followed by their traditional circles flight an hour later, and later, a practice flight demonstration.
As several billowing clouds layered near the end of the runway, the Blue Angels four F/A-18 jets took off in finger tip formation to begin their practice demonstration. Minutes later, the Blues two solo pilots took off, first with lead solo pilot LT Ryan Chamberlin, followed by opposing solo Capt. Kuss on his ill-fated flight.
Donations are still being accepted to help maintain the Capt. Jeff Kuss Memorial. You can donate $1 or higher via Capt. Jeff Kuss Memorial web page; or with your cell phone, text Jeff to 71777. Then click on “Make a Donation” below.
You can also donate in person via cash or cheque at the Smyrna Town Hall on 315 S. Lowry Street or at Franklin Synergy Bank, 724 President Place, Smyrna.
(Charles A. Atkeison reports on aerospace and science. He flew as a VIP with the Blue Angels in 2012. Follow his updates on social media via @Military_Flight.)
In 1970 the Pacific Fleet Combat Camera Group produced the film “Seaview” for Naval Air Station (NAS) Miramar, located near San Diego in California, to portray the history and then-current utilization of the station. Now a Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS), Miramar was of course home to the Pacific Fleet fighter and Airborne Early Warning and Control squadrons for many years. The installation is also forever famous for its association with TOP GUN, the Naval Fighter Weapons School (NFWS) now located at NAS Fallon in Nevada. Uploaded to YouTube by sdasmarchives, the film includes some gorgeous footage of 1970s-vintage Navy jets.
First used by the Army during World War I as Camp Kearny to train infantrymen, the base occasionally saw aircraft activity on the large parade deck area though no airstrip was built there. Charles Lindbergh practiced there before his famous flight across the Atlantic in the Spirit of St. Louis. Used briefly for helium dirigibles during the 1930s, runways didn’t appear until 1940. Parts of the base were used by the Marine Corps for training and by the Navy to train crews slated to fly the Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer patrol bomber. Ironically the bases were combined into what became MCAS Miramar in 1946- but for only a few months.
Official US Navy photograph
The Marines moved to MCAS El Toro in 1947 and Miramar became Naval Auxiliary Air Station (NAAS) Miramar until it became a full-fledged NAS in 1952. NAS Miramar became a primary jet base during the 1960s in support of the Vietnam War. In 1969 the NFWS became part of VF-121 Pacemakers before first becoming a separate command and later world-famous. In 1996, NFWS was relocated and absorbed into the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center (NSAWC) at NAS Fallon in Nevada. On October 1st 1997 NAS Miramar once again became MCAS Miramar.
Official US Navy photograph
Appearing in the film are early-model mothballed Naval Reserve A-4s from NAS Jacksonville (6F), NAS South Weymouth (7Z), and either VA-303 Golden Hawks or VA-304 Firebirds of Reserve Carrier Air Wing THREE ZERO (CVWR-30). Later, Miramar-based VC-7 Tallyhoers/Red Tails A-4Cs pass some gas. A TA-4F was used for much of the air to air photography. F-4s appearing in the film are assigned to VF-111 Sundowners, VF-142 Ghostriders, VF-154 Black Knights, VMFA(AW)-531 Grey Ghosts, and Miramar’s own VF-121 Pacemakers and VF-124 Gunfighters. Also appearing in the film are RF-8G Crusaders from VFP-63 Eyes of the Fleet and F-8J Crusaders from VF-191 Satan’s Kittens.
ANDERSON, SC — America’s Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt and Canada’s Air Force Snowbirds are a few of the top performers at the Bill and Jo Trent Anderson Regional Air show this weekend as they help bring the thrust and excitement to upper South Carolina.
The U.S. Army paratroopers known as the Black Daggers, the A-10 nicknamed the Warthog, and aerobatic pilots Scott Francis in his MXS aircraft and Clemens Kuhlig aboard his award winning Pitts S1S, will perform during the two-day show on May 19 and 20. On Saturday, the U.S. will observe Armed Forces Day.
The Air Force A-10C Warthog will demonstrate low and high speed maneuvers this weekend. (Atkeison)
“The Bill and Jo Trent Anderson Regional Airshow is unique in that it is a totally free airshow — free parking and free admission,” Butch Jones, Anderson Regional Air show director of operations said on Monday. “There will be plenty of food and drinks, a kids zone, vendors of all types, helicopter rides, Stearman rides all set in a family friendly environment.”
The pilots of the Canadian Snowbirds perform in Canadian-built C-114 Tutors jets which provide an individual thrust of 2,700 pounds. During a show, the guests will see the squadron perform with seven or nine jets in a close formation flight demonstration.
This weekend will mark the Snowbirds third appearance at Anderson. “This appearance is special in that they called us and asked us if they could come back,” Jones added. “Our reputation for a class airshow, family environment, and southern hospitality was not forgotten.”
The Anderson air show will mark the Snowbirds third show of their 47th anniversary season. These warriors of the air are a crowd favorite during each event they attend performing tight aerobatic maneuvers performed by Canada’s own Air Force.
“The Snowbirds’ show is the result of six months of intensive preparation and training and consists of over fifty different formations and maneuvers,” Snowbirds spokesperson LT Michèle Tremblay said. “Serving as Canadian ambassadors, the Snowbirds demonstrate the skill, professionalism, and teamwork inherent in the women and men of the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Armed Forces.”
Clemens Kuhlig is known across the growing air show community as ChefPitts. The name he describes as a combination of his two favorite hobbies — cooking and flying. As he spent three years building his Pitts S1S, he was working as a professional chef. His lightweight IO-360 engine provides about 200 hp, combined with specially designed wings featuring longer ailerons.
The ChefPitts S1S biplane will perform aerobatic maneuvers over Anderson Airshow. (ChefPitts)
“My parents took me to an air show when I was eight and the hook was set,” Clemens acknowledged as he stood near his popular red biplane. “It has taken about forty years, on a fairly circuitous path, to achieve my childhood goal of being an air show pilot.”
ChefPitts paused and then said with a firm tone, “If you never lose sight of a dream, it can be achieved.”
A growing air show crowd favorite, the Anderson show will be Clemens Kuhlig third of the season. He carries a fondness for the South Carolina community and the air show producers.
“This will be my second year flying in Anderson,” Clemens said with a big smile. “Gotta love a show that’s funded by the community for the community! Just goes to show what can be done when people get together to organize an Event that is not only fun for the family, but honors all those who serve the community and the country as policemen, firemen, and military.”
The air show entry and parking are free, however show organizers look to donations in support of aircraft fuel, food, and other costs of the performers and the airport itself. Donations of any size can be made by visiting this link or as you arrive at the air show each day. A free air show with several of North America’s top aviation performers is a true treat for everyone.
(Charles A. Atkeison reports on aerospace and science. Follow his updates on social media via @Military_Flight.)
The Air Force Thunderbirds are back and will resume their air show schedule this week beginning with the AirPower Over Hampton Roads in Virginia, the squadron announced on Monday.
The long awaited announcement comes nearly six weeks following the loss of Thunderbird 4 slot pilot Major Stephen “Cajun” Del Bagno, who crashed during a training exercise on April 4 near Las Vegas. Two weeks later, veteran Thunderbird slot pilot Major Nick “Khan” Krajicek, who had served with the team in 2016 and 2017, was announced as the new slot pilot.
“The Thunderbirds look forward to safely resuming public shows at Air Power over Hampton Roads,” Lt. Col. Kevin “Lowen” Walsh, Thunderbird commander and pilot said on Monday. “It’s been challenging to get us to this point, but the team is resilient, focused, and ready to get back to our mission of recruiting, retaining and inspiring.”
Each of the six pilots of the Thunderbirds perform a nearly 45 minute flight demonstration aboard the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The pilots, lead by Lt. Col. Walsh in Thunderbird 1, perform nearly 40 maneuvers demonstrating the diversity of the tactical fighter both in high speed and together in a diamond formation.
Following an intensive review of the entire Thunderbirds squadron last week, Gen. Mike Holmes, Commander of Air Combat Command, felt the Thunderbirds were ready to continue with their 65th anniversary season.
The Thunderbirds six F-16 jets will travel this week to perform above Hampton Roads, Virginia. (USAF)
“We are extremely grateful for the support, faith, and confidence of our senior Air Force leadership as we prepare to showcase our United States Air Force to the public once more,” Walsh added. “As we hit the road, we’ll carry on our wingman’s legacy with pride.”
Major Krajicek has logged over 3,410 flight hours as an Army and Air Force pilot, including over 650 hours of combat experience in the air. He has piloted the UH-60 Blackhawks in the Army, and currently serves as an F-16C/D Fighting Falcon instructor pilot.
The emotional two-day air show this weekend at Joint Base Langley-Eustis will not only feature the Thunderbirds each day, the F-22 Raptor, GEICO Skytypers Airshow Team, and top aerobatic performers will also perform. There will also be a special missing man formation flown in honor of Maj. Del Bagno.
There base will host several top performers beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, including the F-22 and several top warbirds. Gates will open on Friday at 5 p.m. for the evening show, and open on Saturday and Sunday at 9 a.m. Admission is free to the public.
“We’re especially excited about the return of the Thunderbirds as this will be our first co-appearance this season,” GEICO Skytypers Flight Leader Larry Arken told AvGeekery.com moments following the official announcement. “As an integral part of the air show comunity, their return adds an element of excitement to the AirPower Over Hampton Roads.”
Three days following Hampton Roads, the Thunderbirds will perform a special fly over of the Air Force Acadmy’s graduation ceremony in Colorado.
The Thunderbirds’ 2018 schedule:
May 19-20: Langley AFB, Virginia – “AirPower Over Hampton Roads”
May 26-27: Cannon AFB, New Mexico – “Cannon AFB Air Show”
June 2-3: Mountain Home AFB, Idaho – “Gunfighter Skies 2018 Air Show”
June 9-10: Niagara Falls ARS, New York – “Thunder Over Niagara”
June 16-17: Ocean City, Maryland – “OC Air Show”
June 23-24: Hill AFB, Utah – “The Utah Air Show”
June 30-1 July: JB Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska – “Arctic Thunder Air Show”
July 7-8: Duluth, Minnesota – “Duluth Air and Aviation Expo”
July 14-15: Westover ARB, Massachusetts – “The Great New England Air Show”
July 21-22: Milwaukee, Wisconsin – “Milwaukee Air & Water Show”
July 25: Cheyenne, Wyoming – “Frontier Days Air Show”
July 28-29: Latrobe, Pennsylvania – “Westmoreland County Air Show”
August 4: Minot AFB, North Dakota – “Minot AFB Air Show”
August 18-19: Chicago, Illinois – “60th Chicago Air & Water Show”
August 22: Atlantic City, New Jersey – “Thunder over the Boardwalk”
August 25-26: Ypsilanti, Michigan – “Thunder Over Michigan Air Show”
September 1-3: Toronto, Canada – “Canadian International Air Show”
September 8-9: McConnell AFB, Kansas – “McConnell AFB Open House”
September 15-16: New Windsor, New York – “New York Air Show”
September 22-23: Mather, California – “California Capital Air Show”
September 29-30: Salinas, California – “California International Airshow”
October 6-7: Baltimore, Maryland – “Maryland Fleet Week and Air Show”
October 13-14: Fort Worth, Texas – “Fort Worth Alliance Air Show”
October 20-21: Huntington Beach, Calif. – “Breitling Huntington Beach Air Show”
October 27-28: Little Rock AFB, Arkansas – “Thunder Over the Rock”
November 3-4: Homestead ARB, Florida – “Wings Over Homestead”
(Charles A. Atkeison reports on aerospace and science. Follow his updates on social media via @Military_Flight.)
MYRTLE BEACH, SC — A group of maintainers dedicated in keeping the jets of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels operational for every air show are working long hours each day to ensure their aircraft perform in the highest standards.
The pilots of the Navy’s elite Flight Demonstration Squadron are the first to say that the F/A-18 Hornet jets they fly really belong to the mechanics and technicians who keep them operational each day. These unsung heroes place their job dedication and professionalism on the line prior to the departure of each aircraft.
They maintain the oldest aircraft with new parts at their home at Pensacola Naval Air Station in Florida, while testing new aircraft systems prior to and during an air show to keep the high performance aircraft reliable. The maintenance and supply teams are made up of nearly a hundred enlisted men and women of the Navy and Marines who bring special job qualities to maintain the aircraft.
It is the Blue Angels’ pilots who will say these aircraft belong to the maintainers. (Atkeison)
Seven F/A-18 Hornets, each painted with a high gloss blue and gold paint job, and a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, affectionately known as “Fat Albert”, traditionally take to the skies for each air show during the season. It is the Blue Angels maintainers who each spend three years on the squadron to keep these aircraft operational.
For every Blue Angel pilot who serves with the squadron, they credit their trust of the men and women who fix and prepare these aircraft everyday.
“We don’t look at the (jet’s) tires, we don’t look at the engines, we don’t look at anything,” Blue Angel pilot and lead solo LT Tyler Davies explained from the gusty flight line during April’s Wings Over Myrtle Beach. “We just hop in the jet, close the canopy, and put our stuff on, and the first thing we do as Blue Angels 5 and 6 is we max perform the aircraft right out of the gate.”
LT Davies, himself a former aircraft maintainer, takes pride in recognizing the work the maintenance team devotes to the jets. “Knowing how much work goes into maintaining these aircraft day-in and day-out, sun up and sun down, that’s a part of this team that means a lot to me.”
As the Atlantic breeze blew across on the flight line during the inaugural Myrtle Beach show, this aerospace reporter discussed with a few of the Navy’s most experienced engineers about the demands of their jobs — both at home and away.
His second year with Blue Angels, Aldriick Kittles is the crew chief for Blue Angels 6 jet. (Atkeison)
“I am a crew chief for the number 6 jet, the opposing solo,” Petty Officer Second Class Aldriick Kittles began with a tone of excitement in his voice. “My job is to ensure all of the functional checks with the jet is good before the pilot actually flies, and to strap him in, motivate him, and pump him up.”
The Blues assign two crew chiefs per aircraft who then rotate air show visits. These crew chiefs have trained extensively to know the F/A-18 inside and out. The maintenance team are veterans who served aboard aircraft carriers or worked at Naval Air Stations for several years before volunteering to serve with the Blues.
Nearly 40 support personnel travel two days prior to the start of the air show to get everything set up. From their support equipment to learning what hanger the squadron will work, this group of highly qualified individuals are at the show site as the Blue Angels Delta formation arrives overhead from Pensacola.
When asked if he considers this his aircraft, PO2 Kittles stepped in to say, “Yes sir, most definitely, this is my aircraft. We keep it clean — we make sure the jets look good for the show, we turn them (around), and make sure there are no issues such as leaks or cracks.”
The Blue Angels pilots, logistics, and maintainers are on the road 300 days a year. (Atkeison)
Petty Officer Roderick Stevenson is the crew chief for Blue Angel 2, and he appreciates his relationship with the jet and its pilot. “It’s a time where I understand and feel like the pilot is trusting in who I am and what I do, and what exactly his aircraft can do and what I’ve looked over to see what his aircraft can do.”
No Blue Angels flight demonstration has been cancelled due to a maintenance issue since the Blue Angels began flying in 1946. That’s a huge bragging right these maintainers have as they keep the aircraft in the air.
In 2018, the squadron will travel to show sites in Florida, California, the Carolinas, and British Columbia to name a few. The team will also perform a traditional fly over during the Naval Academy graduation ceremony on May 23.
Stevenson adds that he tries to stay relaxed the morning of a show, but to also stay alert as his team prepares the jets. “Things are different every morning and so you have to expect change. You can leave one night and everything is good, and then you awake the next morning and you have a list of things that you’re going to have to fix that morning.”
As the Hornets are put through the routines high above, on the ground, the maintenance crews observe with binoculars and later record post-flight analysis to ensure the jets are performing as expected.
Maintainer Michael Hartwell, his first year as a Blue Angel, is a member of the life support crew. (Atkeison)
PO1 Michael Hartwell, his first year on the team, works as a member of the life support crew. “It’s an honor to work on these blue and gold aircraft and to represent the men and women deployed overseas. This is a true honor.”
Hartwell explained his job duties with the Hornet includes the oxygen system and the canopy systems. “We maintain and repair the systems that support the life of the pilot. We also work on the environmental control systems,” Hartwell added.
Each 56-foot long Hornet carries 11,000 pounds of fuel to stay aloft to not only complete the 42-minute performance, but to stay aloft in the event the jets cannot land right away.
The aircraft also endures untold stress during parts of the aerobatic performance as they pull up to 7G’s (seven times one gravity). One demonstration has the jets soar upside down at over 400 m.p.h while only eighteen inches apart. Although the jets can soar past the speed of sound, the pilots of the Blue Angels keep their aircraft from going super sonic over land as not to crack windows of homes or businesses, or set off alarms on the ground.
As you listen to Stevenson, Kittles, and Hartwell discuss their jobs, you can hear the pride in their voice as they discuss how they contribute to the success of the squadron each day.
Kittle summed up his his relationship with his pilot, “The pilot walks up, salutes us and gets in, and we strap him in and he flies. And, when he comes back, handshake, check the jet and make sure it’s good again.”
(Charles A Atkeison reports on aerospace and technology. Follow his updates via social media@Military_Flight.)
On Wednesday May 2nd 2018 at approximately 1130 local time, a Puerto Rico Air National Guard (ANG) Lockheed C-130H Hercules airlifter crashed near Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (KSAV) in Georgia. The stricken aircraft came to rest on Highway 21 at Crossgate Road but no injuries to those on the ground or property damage were reported at the scene. No survivors were reported by authorities at the scene either. The normal crew for the C-130H is five but it is believed additional personnel may have been aboard the aircraft at the time of the crash. An investigation into the cause of the crash is now underway.
Official US Air Force photograph
The Lockheed C-130H, Air Force serial number 65-0968 (CN 4110), was assigned to the 198th Airlift Squadron (AS) Bucaneros (Buccaneers) of the 156th Airlift Wing (AW) and based at Muniz Air National Guard Base (ANGB) near San Juan in Carolina, Puerto Rico. The aircraft was manufactured by Lockheed as an HC-130H model and later converted to the WC-130H specification for weather reconnaissance work, serving with the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (WRS) Hurricane Hunters out of Keesler Air Force Base (AFB) in Mississippi.
Official US Air Force photograph
After being converted to the C-130H specification, 65-0968 served with the 53rd AS Blackjack of the 19th AW out of Little Rock AFB in Arkansas and with the 105th AS of the 118th AW, Tennessee ANG out of Berry Field ANGB at Nashville in Tennessee. The airlifter began serving with the Puerto Rico ANG in 2007. The 198th AS flies a mixture of C-130H and WC-130H model Hercules. Though the aircraft was on a local training mission when it crashed its ultimate destination was the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG) boneyard Davis-Monthan AFB in Arizona for storage.
Official US Air Force photograph
UPDATE 5/2/2018: A surveillance camera video of the crash has surfaced on the web. We will not, out of respect for those who perished and the ongoing investigation, provide it as part of our coverage. Avgeeks who want to view it can find it easily enough.
UPDATE 5/3/2018: A Puerto Rico Air National Guard spokesman has confirmed that there were nine souls on board the aircraft when it crashed after takeoff from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (KSAV) in Georgia. All on board the aircraft perished in the crash.
Official US Air Force photograph
UPDATE 5/3/2018: The Associated Press has released the names of those who died in the crash:
Major Jose R. Roman Rosado, (pilot) of Manati in Puerto Rico.
First Lieutenant David Albandoz (co-pilot) of Madison in Alabama.
Major Carlos Perez Serra (navigator) of Canovanas in Puerto Rico.
Senior Master Sergeant Jan Paravisini of Canovanas in Puerto Rico.
Master Sergeant Jean Audriffred of Carolina in Puerto Rico.
Master Sergeant Mario Brana (flight engineer) of Bayamon in Puerto Rico.
Master Sergeant Eric Circuns (loadmaster) of Rio Grande in Puerto Rico.
Master Sergeant Victor Colon of Santa Isabel in Puerto Rico.
Senior Airman Roberto Espada of Salinas in Puerto Rico.
MYRTLE BEACH, SC — Military aircraft and the nation’s top aerobatic performers took to the clear skies over Myrtle Beach for the coastal communities first air show in two decades.
The area known as the Grand Strand enjoyed the inaugural event under blue skies and seasonable temperatures on Saturday and Sunday. An estimated record crowd of 120,000 guests, not to mention another 20,000 air show fans located outside the airport’s perimeter and on the beach, viewed in awe the dizzying array of aerobatic performances, live music, and a top notch aviation themed kids zone.
USSOCOM Para-Commandos Team descends into Wings Over Myrtle Beach. (Charles Atkeison)
The U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the Air Force F-16 Viper demonstration team headlined the military performers attending. The GEICO Skytypers and aerobatic pilots Michael Wiskus, Patty Wagstaff, and Rob Holland were a few of the civilian performers.
The high speed maneuvers and low passes of the Blue Angels and the Viper jet had guests standing and appauding during the final two hours. The audience in attendance let out huge awes as the Blues and the Skytypers performed their own bomb burst maneuvers each day.
Air Force KC-135 Tanker, built in 1958 and still in use, was popular with attendees. (Charles Atkeison)
“Are you kidding me, this is the coolest show,” Lucas Oil biplane pilot Mike Wiskus said on Sunday. “In my performances I do one of the lowest ribbon cuts — a 15-foot inverted ribbon cut — and I always like doing that one. I also do a forward summersult where I get the airplane to stop a thousand feet in the air and do a summersault.”
Pilot Jim Record of the GEICO Skytypers stepped in on Sunday to express with AvGeekery his interest in the Myrtle Beach show. “This is a terriffic show, and we are really proud to be here.”
Massive Boeing C-17 Globemaster III sits poised during a Myrtle Beach sunrise. (Charles Atkeison)
Air show organizers already have one eye on the future as they have begun preparing for the second annual Wings Over Myrtle Beach set for May 2019. Officially, the Air Force Thunderbirds is currently scheduled to headline the event.
(Charles A. Atkeison reports on aerospace and science. Follow his updates on social media via @Military_Flight.)
Earlier this year the aviation and spotting community on YouTube lost a very special person. His name was Steve Bezman also known as 99carnot.
Steve was an aviation lover, planespotter and passionate Youtuber from Alexandria, Virginia, located along the western bank of the Potomac River, just south of downtown Washington, D.C.
SInce 2012, he posted a lot of awesome videos from his home airport, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, also known as DCA. He also enjoyed posting videos of the local Fire Station. He had a great influence on many YouTubers who share his passion of filming planes in action at airports and airshows around the world. He supported many people on Youtube by commenting, complimenting and motivating them till the last weeks of his life. His death shocked the aviation community on Youtube.
So who was this special man who influenced and impacted many Youtubers with his continuous support and positivity?
Steve Bezman, back in the 70s
Steven P. Bezman was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on September 23, 1948.
He had an older brother Richard and a younger sister Liz, with whom he was very close.
Steve spent much time as a highschooler hanging out at the local Fire Station becoming close friends with several of the Fire Captains.
Steve loved to work with his hands. He became friends with a neighbor who had a workshop in his garage and Steve often spent time with him. He also used this workshop to do some glass blowing.
He was awarded a full scholarship to The University of Maryland in Fire Protection Engineering, but college life was not for him. He moved back to Pittsburgh where he became an inspector for an insurance company to rate them for fire insurance. When his travels took him near State College, PA he loved to spend time with his younger sister Liz by taking her out to dinner, while she was a student at Penn State.
Around 50 years ago, In the late sixties, Steve moved to Virginia at the request of his employer. When the request was made for him to move to Philadelphia, he chose to stay in Virginia and began to work for TWA. When he started as a baggage handler, he became aware of safety issues and often shared his concerns and suggestions to his supervisors. He was recognized for this and received an award in a major ceremony in London. Steve had a lifelong interest in safety with a special passion for aviation safety. Later in his life he would have numerous letters printed in the FAA journal.
Steve Bezman receiving an award for what he did for aviation security
Later he started a new career by working for the Federal Reserve Board. He started as a driver in the transportation department to eventually retire from being supervisor of that department.
He was known for his efficiency and went in up to 3 hours earlier than was necessary to make sure things were in place for the upcoming day.
One of the most dark days of his life was when Steve was working at the Federal Reserve Board on 9/11, when he witnessed the airplane striking into the Pentagon, a Boeing 757 from American Airlines Flight 77. He was driving alongside the airliner. From that day on this horrible experience had a very profound impact on Steve’s life. It was something that he dealt with daily.
In 1988 he moved to a new house in Alexandria, Virginia and took great pride in it. Steve loved to spend time in his garden and he especially loved the spring as bulbs began to pop up.
He also began to do stained glass pieces and gifted so many of his loved ones with his beautiful creations.
Although Steve never married and never had children himself, he enjoyed his role as Uncle Steve very much. His sister’s Liz sons, Michael and Matt were very special to him. Uncle Steve was also very special to the two nephews who always enjoyed their phone conversations with him.
Besides being a protective and caring brother and Uncle, he was also an incredible neighbor and friend to so many others.
He retired about 3 years ago and began to work part time for a local landscape company where he worked on equipment and did preventive maintenance. Steve loved this job very much.
Steve becomes an avgeek Youtube staple
Since October 24, 2011 Steve started to post videos on YouTube as ’99carnot’. He named his channel after Sadi Carnot, a French physicist from the 19th century,
in relation to what he published about how engines work.
What fascinated Steve very much was how different types of engines all operate with four distinct events; intake – compression – power or combustion – exhaust.
The most interesting to Steve was the fact that in piston engines, those 4 events take place at different times in the same engine component, inside the cylinder.
In a jet engine or a gas turbine engine those events take place at the same time in different components, resulting in a smooth running engine compared to piston engines.
It was not surprising that his first videos were about him working on small engines. He had a great passion for engines and he loved to work on small engines very much.
In his first video from October 24, 2011 Steve showed parts from a Pratt & Whitney nine cylinder radial aircraft engine.
Steve also posted videos of trains, the Virginia Fire Station in Alexandria, even music videos. But he was best known for his many aviation videos he filmed at his home airport, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, also known as DCA. He loved planes very much. He posted his first aviation video on August 31, 2012.
Although he loved to work with his hands, Steve’s favorite activity was taking pictures of airplanes. He spent much time uploading photos and videos to his YouTube channel.
This was another source of great satisfaction to him. He loved to share his videos with the world and interact with his YouTube friends from every corner of the planet.
Steve had a good sense of humor and was also known on Youtube for his legendary ‘Friday Fails’ videos.
One of Steve’s many ‘Friday Fail’ videos
Steve was very loved by all his YouTube friends around the world. Steve would never hesitate to leave a kind comment on everyone’s video, if it was bad or good. From an experienced Youtuber to someone who just started posting videos, from a teenage kid to a man who has teenage kids himself, to Steve it all didn’t matter. What mattered to him was to be positive by spreading love to everyone on Youtube and for everyone to continue with doing the thing they love, shooting planes and creating aviation videos for everyone in the world to enjoy. Just like Steve was doing for years. This passion he had for aviation was something that would always be a great part of his life.
Steve telling us about him being away from Youtube for a while and for us to keep up the great spotting
On January 14, 2018 Steve posted a video telling us: “I will be away from Youtube for a while, but will try to watch your videos. Thanks and keep up the great spotting!” Only two weeks later, on January 31 he posted his last video with the title “Channel Update – Cancer.”
In the description he said: “Something I never expected.” His message in the video to all of his Youtube friends and the world was very impressive and touching: “On January 16, 2018 I was diagnosed with plasma cell leukemia. I started chemotherapy on January 29, 2018. I intend to beat this cancer, and get back to my normal daily activities as soon as possible, including being more active on Youtube. Always be grateful for the good days you are blessed with.”
VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhtvBV6si0U
Steve’s last important message to the world in his last video of January 31, 2018. Two weeks before he passed away.
Unfortunately, Steve lost his fight to this awful disease, cancer. He passed away on February 14, 2018 at the age of 69. Like this was meant to be, he passed away on Valentine’s Day, a special day when we celebrate and share our love with our loved ones. Steve definitely shared his love, not only with his family, friends and neighbors, but also with his many friends around the world.
He will be dearly missed on Youtube. These were many emotional comments, left by his fellow YouTubers in one of his last videos:
* Rest In Peace Steve. You were loved by all. You were the “Grandpa Spotter”, always supported everyone no matter what. You truly were a spotting legend. Rest In Peace – YYC Plane Productions
* RIP Steve, really an awesome guy who always without fail leave kind comments on my videos. You will dearly be missed mate – Triple7Lover
* We miss you Steve. You were always so friendly. I liked your encouraging and enthusiastic comments. I am deeply sorry to hear that you are no longer with us – Matthias Aviation Channel
* One of the nicest and kindest souls in our tight knit community, and a truly amazing spotter for sure. I’m sure I can speak for all of us, that Steve was one of our first viewers and supporters on our channels and continued to support us from there on – CathayA340 Aviation
* Man, I was not expecting to hear something like this…I always enjoyed watching his videos, from the regular spotting videos, to the Friday Fails. Rest in peace Steve! – NickFlightX
* Rest in peace, man. You were and still are a great human being. You supported a lot of channels from the beginning and always had something positive to say. It was a pleasure to communicate with you. Thank you for all your support and motivation you gave to almost everyone in our community. We miss you Steve… and will never forget you and your positive attitude.- Aileron Aviation Films
* He was an absolutely kind person and he gave a last message to us:”Enjoy all the good days you’re blessed with!”
I think we all should think about him a moment and take that message with us! Steve, we will never forget you! – Spottertech
* Fly high my friend…and may your dreams fly as high as the airplanes you once filmed. R.I.P Steve – Avgeek Productions
* You will be missed Steve! I really wish I didn’t put off meeting you last summer. Hopefully I’ll meet you on the other side one day. ❤- Erik’s Fire And Aviation Videos
* Dear Steve…I was always very happy to receive your very nice comments on my videos. You were always a very nice person. Always very kind to me and many others here on Youtube!
You were one of a kind. Very special and I feel honored to have known you through Youtube. Thank you for all the support and all the nice words.
I will miss you and I will never forget you! I really hope to meet you one fine day! – JERRY TAHA AVIATION
Steve left this world leaving us with his strong message and life lesson, that I will always remember and treasure: “Always be grateful for the good days you are blessed with.”
I will never forget you, Steve.The world really needs more kind people like you. Rest In Peace in Heaven, my friend. Fly high, dear Steve!
Steve’s family and friends will be honoring him today, Saturday April 28, 2018 during a special Celebration of Life service in Phoenix, Arizona.
America’s “Ambassadors in Blue”, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, now have a new slot pilot, the #4 position with the team, and he is a former Thunderbird himself. Maj. Nick “Khan” Krajicek, former Slot Pilot during the 2016 and 2017 show seasons, is returning to replace Major Stephen “Cajun” Del Bagno, who was lost in a tragic accident during a routine training mission over Nevada on the morning of April 4.
The team has understandably been absent from air shows ever since, grieving and conducting an investigation into what exactly went wrong, while also planning their path forward. But as they say, the show must go on, and while the team has not yet announced when they will return to air shows, they are back in the sky training as of the third week of April.
Krajicek is an experienced Thunderbird alumnus who performed as the Slot Pilot during the 2016 and 2017 show seasons. Photo Credit: USAF
“You have helped us through some incredibly difficult days and aided us in our first steps on the long road to recovery,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Walsh, Thunderbird 1, Commander/Leader. “Hard days lie ahead, but we press on a little stronger thanks to you.”
Prior to becoming a Thunderbird, Maj. Del Bagno was a F-35A pilot at the 58th Fighter Squadron, based at Eglin AFB. 2018 was his first year on the team, and while his loss marked the first fatality for the Thunderbirds in 36 years, it was the third accident they’ve experienced in less than 2 years.
Major Stephen “Cajun” Del Bagno describes the hi-tech layout of his then F-35 Lightning II helmet in 2017. Photo Credit: Charles Atkeison)
No official details have been released yet by the U.S. Air Force about what happened over the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) on the day he was lost, as the investigation is ongoing. The team is based out of Nellis AFB on the outskirts of Las Vegas.
“We’re grateful to have Khan coming back to the team,” says Walsh. “His experience and familiarity with our team’s mission and the demonstration profile make him the right choice as we safely make our way back on the road to recruit, retain and inspire once more.”
As of now, the team has cancelled two more upcoming scheduled appearances at the Charleston and Fort Lauderdale Air Shows, in order to facilitate Krajicek’s requalification training with the team.
Krajicek has logged more than 3,400 flight hours as a military pilot, with more than 650 hours of combat experience. He flew UH-60 Blackhawks in the Army, is an F-16C/D Fighting Falcon instructor pilot and commissioned into the Air Force in 2004. Photo Credit: USAF
However, both the Laughlin AFB Air Show in Texas and the Air Power over Hampton Roads Air Show in Virginia are being evaluated, “and are dependent on the team’s readiness to perform a safe 6-ship aerial demonstration”, says the team.
Major Krajicek commissioned into the Air Force in 2004, and has logged more than 3,400 flight hours as a military pilot, with more than 650 hours of combat experience. He flew UH-60 Blackhawks in the Army, and is an F-16C/D Fighting Falcon instructor pilot.
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– Follow Mike Killian on Instagram and Facebook, @MikeKillianPhotography.
MYRTLE BEACH, SC — The nation’s top aerobatic pilots and popular military aircraft including the Navy’s Blue Angels, have arrived in Myrtle Beach in preparation for the region’s first air show in nearly two decades.
The two-day family event is expected to entertain with top aviation performers, great food, and offer an economic boost for the area with nearly 80,000 expected to attend. Sunshine and cool temperatures will dominate the weekend weather allowing for a beautiful air show experience.
“We are extremely excited about hosting this event,” John Cowman, JLC AirShow Management President, stated as we paused on the flight line on Thursday. “Staging a show at a former air base carries a bit of nostalgia because most of my staff is comprised of U.S. Air Force Veterans.
The Blue Angels arrived smoke on and in their delta formation, over the beaches of the Grand Strand on Wednesday to cheering crowds and curious onlookers impressed to see the sight low in the sky. The Navy’s flight demonstration team will perform each afternoon at about 3 p.m.
“We’re super excited to be here at Myrtle Beach — the beach is gorgeous,” LT Tyler Davies, Angel 5 and the Lead Solo pilot, said on Thursday during a flight line chat. “We got to see a lot of people on the beach as we flew over and we waived at them, and I think its gonna be an awesome show.”
The Myrtle Beach show will have a wide area to explore as guests visit static aircraft, and set up their favorite spot to enjoy the four hour show.
The Air Force F-16 Viper will perform this weekend at Myrtle Beach air show. (Charles Atkeison)
“The performer line-up is one of the best on the entire east coast and includes the Navy’s Blue Angels and Air Force Air Combat Command F-16 Demonstration Team as headliners,” Cowman added.
Many top aerobatic performers will include Class of ’45 pilots Scott Yoak and his Quicksilver P-51D and Jim Tobul with the F4U Corsair, Patty Wagstaff and Rob Holland. On the ground, Bill Braack and his Smoke-n-Thunder Jet Car will scream down the runway powered by 7,500 pounds of thrust as it races a low flying aircraft.
A historic DC-9, one of several aircraft on static display, will shine at Myrtle Beach. (Charles Atkeison)
On the ground, popular static displays including the Air Force’s C-17 Globemaster, will be poised among the many popular aircraft on the open tarmac. A C-130 Hercules, T-38 Talon, F-35 Lightning, and an F/A-18 Hornet are a few on hand to offer guests an up close view.The Marine’s F-35B Lightning II is the fifth generation strike fighter will be on display during the air show. This F-35 is a carrier variant designed for take-off and landing from an aircraft carrier. It’s for that reason the C model has a larger wingspan and can carry more fuel than the Air Force’s A Model or the Marines B model. To witness an F-35 up close is a rare treat for the public.
The popular Kid Zone near the static aircraft will allow children a fun way to pass the time during the aerobatic performances. Aircraft themed air slides, jump houses and more will be available all day during both days, air show management confirmed on Friday.
Tickets for the airshow and parking remain available online at WingsOverMyrtleBeach.com, and will be sold at the gate on Saturday and Sunday beginning at 8:00 a.m. Cowman urges guests to arrive early to avoid the traffic. Gates will open at 9 a.m. each day, and the show will kick-off at noon with a patriotic special opening ceremony.
(Charles A. Atkeison reports on aerospace and science. Follow his updates on social media via @Military_Flight.)
MYRTLE BEACH, SC — The GEICO Skytypers Air Show Team has launched into their new season primed with a new flight demonstration display and loaded with a dizzying array of aerobatic maneuvers they will showcase next at the Wings Over Myrtle Beach.
The GEICO Skytypers carry the torch forward for the Greatest Generation of pilots, demonstrating their story high above the air show crowd as they display select war time maneuvers. Their dedication and skill continues to inspire many to want to learn more about the history behind these aircraft, and the aviators who piloted these silver doves through the smoke blackened skies of war.
Their historic Navy SNJ-2 aircraft, first used to train the pilots of the second World War, will highlight the deep blue skies over the Myrtle Beach Regional Airport this Saturday and Sunday. Tickets remain available for the city’s first air show in over a decade as the GEICO Skytypers co-headline their second show of the year with the Navy’s Blue Angels.
The Skytypers six World War II-era aircraft race Smoke-N-Thunder Jet Car in 2017. (Charles Atkeison)
“We are excited to reveal a new routine to our supporters for the 2018 Air Show Season,” said Lead Solo Pilot Steve Salmirs, who choreographed the Skytypers’ new performance routine for this season. “There is more dynamic maneuvering from the various aircraft, additional interaction between the planes in the air show air space, and some surprise elements developed to enhance and highlight the aircraft and pilots’ capabilities.
The six World War II aircraft of the GEICO Skytypers will blaze a trail above South Carolina’s Grand Strand the as they launch into their 12th anniversary season. These silver warbirds are based at the airfield in Farmingdale, New York. In between show sites, the aircraft rest in special hangers located on the western end of the Long Island community.
“Our narration will continue to educate audiences as the team demonstrates military maneuvers taught and executed from WWII to present day. The new performance is tighter and more demanding. We believe it will initiate an evolution towards enhancements in the future. We look forward seeing old friends and making new acquaintances at air shows to hear comments. We hope everyone will be pleased,” Salmirs added.
The squadron is lead by its commanding officer in Skytyper 1 Larry Arken. Skytyper planes 2 thru 6 are piloted by Chris Thomas, Ken Johansen, Chris Orr, Steve Salmirs, and Kevin Sinibaldi. Pilot Tom Daly also serves as lead solo and Dino Peros is an alternate opposing solo. Pilots Jim Record and Steve Kapur serve as the team’s advance pilots.
GEICO Skytypers will blaze a trail above South Carolina’s Grand Strand this weekend. (Charles Atkeison)
It’s the aircraft technician team who keep history flying on the weekends. Lead by Frank Atria, his team of Mike Beecroft, Greg Coons, and Joseph McMillian, stay busy in keeping these historic aircraft in fine working order.
The team’s 20-minute flight demo is not their only feature during most airshows. The forecast of great weather over the airport will allow for the aircraft to create a massive sky written message each.
“Flying five aircraft in a tight, line-abreast formation, the planes coordinate in typing dot matrix-style messages with environmentally friendly puffs of white smoke,” Skytypers spokesperson Brenda Little confirmed on Tuesday. “A computer in the lead aircraft uses a custom-programmed tablet to send commands to the other planes via radio signals.”
The outcome is several massive letters the size of the Empire State Building which create messages in which someone standing 15 miles away in any direction can see. The speed of the aircraft in a line abreast formation can create nearly 25 characters in under two minutes.
When they are not bust performing, the team will spend their time at an air show site visiting education centers and hospitals with their public outreach program. Both the pilots and maintenance team members will also host student groups at the air show for a group discussion plane side, and the chance to climb aboard their aircraft.
GEICO Skytypers 2018 Air Show Schedule:
Apr 21-22 Vero Beach Air Show, Vero Beach, FL
Apr 28-29 Wings Over Myrtle Beach Air Show, Myrtle Beach, SC
May 5-6 Ford Lauderdale Air Show, Fort Lauderdale, FL
May 12-13 Tampa Bay AirFest, MacDill AFB, FL
May 18-20 Air Power Over Hampton Roads, JB Langley Eustis, VA
May 26-27 Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach, Jones Beach, NY
Jun 2-3 NAS Patuxent River Air Expo, NAS Patuxent River, MD
Jun 9-10 RI National Guard Open House Air Show, Quonset Point, RI
Jun 16-17 Ocean City Air Show, Ocean City, MD
Jul 14-15 Great New England Air and Space Show, Westover ARB, MA
Jul 25-29 EAA Air Venture Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI
Aug 23 Atlantic City Airshow, Atlantic City, NJ
Sep 22-23 NAS Oceana Air Show, NAS Oceana, VA
Oct 6-7 Maryland Fleet Week and Air Show, Baltimore, MD
Oct 27-28 NAS Jax Air Show, Jacksonville, FL
(Charles A. Atkeison reports on aerospace and science. Follow his updates on social media via @Military_Flight.)
This Blue Angels retrospective was produced by the Blue Angels Association to celebrate the team’s 70th Anniversary in 2016. The video intermixes performance footage tracing all the way back to the team’s original Grumman F6F Hellcat aircraft and personnel with music from the eras during which each aircraft was flown by the team along with still shots of teams and luminaries associated with the Blues over 70 years. The video was uploaded to YouTube by Blue Angels Association.
The Blue Angels have starred in films and television many times since their inception- one of the first being a television series airing during the early 1960s. The song “Flying Blue Angels” performed by George, Johnny and the Pilots was a hit in 1961. Many films, documentaries, and videos have featured the team and their performances. Appearances on two episodes of Tim Allen’s television series Home Improvement and a couple of Mythbusters episodes also added to the team’s credits. Movie stars, presidents, and celebrities alike have always been drawn to the charismatic Blues.
Everybody loves the BUFF. Boeing’s B-52H Stratofortress is still a front line weapons system more than sixty years after it entered United States Air Force (USAF) service. Today many of the remaining USAF B-52Hs are based at Barksdale Air Force Base at Bossier City in northwestern Louisiana and Minot AFB at Minot near the Canadian border in North Dakota. YouTuber airailimages uploaded this gorgeous HD footage of two BUFFs working the pattern at Barksdale on April 2nd of 2018. If you relish the distinctive whine of those eight TF33s whistling past, don’t miss this one!
The first B-52H to appear is 61-0010 (CN 464437) named Junkyard Dog and assigned to the 20th Bomb Squadron (BS) Buccaneers of the 2nd Bomb Wing (BW) and based at Barksdale AFB. The other BUFF in the pattern is 61-0003 (CN 464430) named Miss Behavin’ and assigned to the 69th BS Knighthawks of the 5th BW at Minot AFB.
Official US Air Force photograph
The remaining B-52H-equipped Bomb Wings are the 2nd Bomb Wing The Deuce and the Air Force Reserve Command’s 307th Bomb Wing, both based at Barksdale, and the 5th Bomb Wing Bomber Barons based at Minot. The 2nd BW is made up of the 11th BS School House, the 20th BS Buccaneers, and the 96th BS Red Devils. The 307th BW includes the 93rd BS Indian Outlaws and the 343rd BS Avengers. The 5th BW consists of the 23rd BS and the 69th BS Knighthawks.
Official US Air Force photograph
The 23rd BS and the 93rd BS both celebrated more than 100 years of service during 2017. Between 1955 and 1992, the B-52s flown by these squadrons were Strategic Air Command (SAC) assets. From 1992 to 2010 they belonged to Air Combat Command (ACC). Since 2010 have been part of Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC). Today the 11th BS School House owns training for B-52 crews and maintainers.
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The thrust of jet aircraft and sights of the top warbirds of yesteryear filled the skies of western Alabama on Sunday during the final day of the Tuscaloosa Regional Air show.
Over 50,000 guests arrived early for a chance to witness both military and civilian performers, including the historic A-10C Thunderbolt II, popular aerobatic pilots Rob Holland and Adam Baker, and the air shows headline performer the Navy’s Blue Angels. Air show officials estimate crowds of nearly 20,000 parked nearby during the weather shorted single day event.
The Navy’s Blue Angels solos perform their signature maneuver known as the Fortus.
Thunderstorms on Saturday cancelled the entire performance line-up, leaving a cloudy and cold Sunday as the lone flight day for several civilian and military demonstrations. As the opening ceremonies begun at noon, the grassy guest areas remained wet and the cold wind blew following the passage of a cold front.
Once Air Boss David Schultz was given the airspace around the airport, the flying began beginning with the opening ceremonies. The patriotic theme and the national anthem had the entire audience on their feet in support of both the military and local city police and firefighters on duty supporting the event.
The A-10C, nicknamed the Warthog, performed a 20 minute flight demonstration by pilot Capt. Cody Wilton showcasing the handling characteristics of this Air Force aircraft. Based at Davis-Monthan AFB in Arizona, the Warthog demonstrated the way it can maneuver at a low altitude and low air speeds.
“Our mission is to showcase the combat capabilities of the A-10, and to inspire the future generations of air power,” A-10 Demo Team spokesperson Sr Airman Betty Chevalier said on Sunday. “What makes our demonstration different than any other single ship aerial demonstration in the Air Force is most of ours takes place in front of the crowd.”
This year marks the return of the A-10 as a demonstration flight performer for the first time in seven years. The team is scheduled to attend 20 show sites in the United States, Canada, and Korea in 2018.
The A-10 and P-51 perform the Heritage Flight above Tuscaloosa airshow Sunday.
“I think my favorite maneuver is the double aileron roll just cause it happens so quickly,” Sr Airman Chevalier added as the her team moved across the gusty flightline. “Capt. Wilton performs two aileron rolls very quickly in front of the crowd.”
The Tuscaloosa air show included an array of both military and civilian static displays, including the UH-72A Lakota helicopter from the Alabama Air National Guard’s Birmingham 114th Aviation Detachment. The crew of the Lakota’s mission is simple — homeland security and support.
“It’s great to have the aircraft here for two reasons, one for recruiting and one for individuals to be able to see the aircraft,” Chief Warrant Officer 4 Timothy Cauley said as he and his team stood near their aircraft. “Even though the UH-72 has been in the army for ten years, it is relatively new to the general public, and so they do not have a full understanding of what we do and how we support the citizens and local state and federal law enforcement.”
A UH-72A Lakota from the Alabama Air National Guard, Birmingham, attended the Tuscaloosa airshow on Sunday.
A twin engine helicopter, this UH-72 features a glass cockpit and the ability to perform rescue operations with the air of its external hoist system. Painted in Army green with darkened windows, the Lakota carries a Security & Support Mission Equipment Package which includes an electro-optical infrared sensor camera at the nose to aid in night searches and navigation.
Tuscaloosa air show officials are hoping to return again in two years with another great line up. An official announcement will be made no earlier than December.
(Charles A. Atkeison reports on aerospace and science. Follow his updates on social media via @Military_Flight.)
On April 11th 2018 the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S Truman (CVN-75) departed Norfolk for the ship’s latest deployment. The carrier and her crew of 6,500 sailors, along with the attendant Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG), is headed to the Mediterranean Sea and points Middle East. Escorted by several guided missile destroyers, the carrier’s primary weapons are the aircraft and crews of Carrier Air Wing ONE (CVW-1). This video, uploaded to YouTube by Gung Ho Vids, shows the ships of the HSTCSG departing Norfolk.
CVW-1 consists of Strike Fighter Squadron ONE ONE (VFA-11) Red Rippers and VFA-211 Fighting Checkmates flying the twin-seat Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet, VFA-81 Sunliners and VFA-136 Knighthawks flying the single-seat Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet, Electronic Attack Squadron ONE THREE SEVEN (VAQ-137) Rooks flying the Boeing EA-18G Growler, and Airborne Early Warning Squadron ONE TWO SIX (VAW-126) Seahawks flying the Grumman E-2D Hawkeye.
Official US Navy photograph
Also aboard the Truman is a detachment from Fleet Logistics Support Squadron FOUR ZERO (VRC-40) Rawhides flying the Grumman C-2A(R) Greyhound along with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron ONE ONE (HSC-11) Dragon Slayers flying the Sikorsky MH-60S Knighthawk, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron SEVEN TWO (HSM-72) Proud Warriors flying the Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk helicopter. There are about 1,900 CVW-1 personnel aboard the carrier when the air wing is aboard.
Official US Navy photograph
The remainder of the HSTCSG consists of the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG-60), and the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers USS Arleigh Burke (DDG-51), USS Bulkeley (DDG-84), USS Forrest Sherman (DDG-98), and USS Farragut (DDG-99) of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28. Also sailing with the Strike Group is the German Sachsen-class frigate FGS Hessen (F 221). The Burke-class DDGs USS The Sullivans (DDG-68) and USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109) are also expected to sail with the HSTCSG after the Hessen eventually departs for home.
Official US Navy photograph
Commanding the HSTCSG is Rear Admiral Gene Black. The aircraft carrier Truman is commanded by Captain Nick Dienna. CVW-1 is commanded by Captain John Perrone. During the Truman’s last deployment to the Mediterranean and the Arabian Gulf, the ship steamed more than 53,000 nautical miles. CVW-8 flew more than 27,000 hours over more than 9,500 sorties including 2,000 combat sorties from the carrier’s deck.
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The Navy’s Blue Angels and the Air Force A-10C Thunderbolt screamed across western Alabama on Thursday as top military and civilian aircraft began arriving for the Tuscaloosa Regional Airshow this weekend.
The two-day family event will bring together aerobatic flying, great food, and a family-friendly atmosphere at a growing airport. Weather permitting, aircraft rides and a Kids Zone bounce area will be open to visitors each day.
Tuscaloosa city and airport officials welcomed the Navy’s flight demonstration team upon arriving at the regional airport at 10:29 a.m. As the headline performer, the Blue Angels are expected to draw nearly 70,000 attendees over the weekend.
The Blue’s six blue and yellow F/A-18 Hornets will take-off at around 3:10 p.m. each day to begin their nearly 42-minute flight demonstration. The six jet Delta Team will split into a Diamond and two solos minutes later as they perform nearly 30 maneuvers demonstrating the handling characteristics of the Navy’s Hornet aircraft. Stay alert for the solos’ famous sneak pass from behind the crowd.
“We are showcasing the tight formation of the diamond, and when the diamond is not in front of the crowd, the solos get to do their maneuvers,”LT Brandon Hempler, Blue Angels opposing solo pilot, said on Thursday. “Yes, we do everything from the high alpha pass showing how slow the aircraft can go, and we also do the famous sneak pass that hopefully catches a few people off guard.”
Blue Angels pilot LT Brandon Hempler is ready to perform over Tuscaloosa this weekend. (Mark Chandler)
This month marks the Blue Angel’s 72nd anniversary, and the team’s arrival into Tuscaloosa begins their fifth air show visit of 32 planned during the 2018 season. One Blue Angel pilot was grinning as he discussed with AvGeekery about their visit to Title Town, U.S.A.
“Hey, we all love Alabama, and I have watched a lot of football the last few years and it’s a great team,” LT Hempler, Blue Angels said as we stood in the shadow of his number 6 jet. “There’s a lot of great teams across the country, but, you know, Alabama’s a power house.”
The popular A-10C Thunderbolt II, also known as the Warthog on the flight line, will perform a nearly 20 minute display featuring the aircraft’s handling characteristics. The gray, low wing monoplane will demonstrate tight maneuvers, its ability to hold in flight over a small area, and its ability to perform short take-off and landings.
World aerobatic champion Rob Holland will perform over the Tuscaloosa Airshow. (Charles Atkeison)
Aerobatic champion Rob Holland will pilot his MX2, pilot Greg Koontz will offer a comedic spin during his flight, the historic De Havilland DH-115 warbird, and theU.S. Army’s current UH-72 Lakota helicopter from Birmingham’s 114th Aviation Detachment.
With the threat of rain is forecast over the area on Saturday, organizers confirmed that the air show will be held rain or shine. Umbrellas will not be allowed inside the gates, however show officials said that ponchos are allowed and will also be sold inside the gates.
Free shuttle service from three major parking lots will offer guests easy access to the airport each day. The former K-Mart parking lot, Tuscaloosa County High School, and Tuscaloosa Intermodal Facility Downtown Parking will each have buses ferrying guests to the air show beginning at 9:00 a.m.
The static aircraft displays and the popular kids zone will open at the same time the gates open to the public at 10:00 a.m. The national anthem and the first performance flights are scheduled to begin at noon.
The popular Kids Zone located near the static aircraft will allow children a fun way to pass the time prior to the aerobatic performances. Aircraft themed air slides, jump houses, and more will be available all day on each day, air show management confirmed.
(Charles A. Atkeison reports on aerospace and science. Follow his updates on social media via @Military_Flight.)
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The Navy’s Blue Angels and many of the nation’s top military and civilian aircraft are poised to return this weekend to the skies over western Alabama for the Tuscaloosa Regional Air Show.
The two-day show is scheduled for this Saturday and Sunday, and will mark the Blue Angels fifth visit to Tuscaloosa during the last nine years. Tickets remain available for Title Towns’s first air show in three years, and will feature aircraft demonstrations, great food, and an aviation-themed kids zone.
“The Blue Angels deciding once again to come back to Tuscaloosa is a testament to our engaging, supportive community,” Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox said. “The community, volunteers, and partnering agencies take great pride in our regional shows.”
U.S. Navy Blue Angels return to Title Town U.S.A. this weekend for Tuscaloosa Regional Airshow (Charles Atkeison)
The Navy’s Flight Demonstration Squadron, also known as the Blue Angels, will headline the family event which will also feature several top performers, including aerobatic champion Rob Holland, Greg Koontz, the historic De Havilland DH-115 warbird, and the U.S. Coast Guard. Dozens of other aircraft will allow visitors to view static displays up close and even board a few.
The Blue Angels 40-minute demonstration by their six F/A-18 Hornets, will conclude each day’s performance schedule. Tuscaloosa Airport manager Jeff Powell is excited to have America’s Team back in the city. Smiling as we walked the flight line on Monday, Powell holds this show in the highest regard.
“The Blue Angels have been a great partner since the first Tuscaloosa Regional Air Show in 2009,” he said. “The squadron demonstrates the capabilities of our servicemen and servicewomen by producing one of the premier air show performances in the world. It is one of our key themes this year with the ‘The Greatest Show Above Earth’.”
The Air Force A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft has also been added to the shows lineup. Nicknamed the “Warthog”, the crew of this aircraft will demonstrate its handling capabilities near show center.
An Air Force Thunderbolt II sits poised awaiting it’s next flight demonstration on Sunday. (USAF)
Near the end of their flight, the Warthog will join a P-51 Mustang to perform the crowd favorite Heritage Flight. This A-10C is based at Davis-Monthan AFB, in Arizona, and are fresh from their flight demonstration over the heart of Texas on Sunday.
Seven-time U.S. National Aerobatic Champion and four-time World Freestyle Aerobatic Championship pilot Rob Holland will perform each afternoon. Rob is excited to not miss a beat this season as he pilots his MX2 aircraft in a dizzying array of aerobatics such as tumbling end-over-end.
“For our performers, we have focused on a schedule that appeals to all ages and activities throughout the air show grounds that provides a great experience for families,” Powell began. “One of our overall goals is to make this event something that guests of all ages can enjoy with our kid zone, static aircraft, and interactive displays, taste testing and sampling, and opportunities to meet a few of the pilots.”
The Kids Zone’s huge aviation-themed inflatables and a climbing wall will entertain children during the air show. A small one-time fee will allow each child unlimited use of the area for the day.
“The Tuscaloosa Public Library will also be on-site as well as the Home Depot to offer interactive activities with the kids,” Powell added. “From the air show itself, to the displays, to the activities- there’s something for the entire family.”
Gates will open to the public at 10:00 a.m. The static aircraft displays and the popular kids zone will also open at the same time. The national anthem and the first performance flights are scheduled to begin at noon.
Free shuttle service from three major parking lots will offer guests easy access to the airport each day. The former K-Mart parking lot, Tuscaloosa County High School, and Tuscaloosa Intermodal Facility Downtown Parking will each have buses ferrying guests to the air show beginning at 9:00 a.m.
(Charles A. Atkeison reports on aerospace and science. Follow his updates on social media via @Military_Flight.)
Every year, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and their CF-18 Hornet Demo Team paint their air show jet in a special livery, and 2018 is no exception. In recent years paint jobs have included a Tiger design, a giant Maple Leaf honoring Canada’s 150th birthday, and designs honoring the history of various RCAF squadrons (such as the “millennium” design which included a “Dusk to Dawn” color scheme and commemorative colors for the 60th Anniversary of 410 “Cougars” Squadron).
2018 marks the 60th anniversary of the North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD as it’s more commonly known, so the RCAF and CF-18 team decided to paint their 2018 demo jet to honor the cooperation between Canada and the United States in monitoring and defending North America together over the past six decades, shining light on the importance of honoring the past, guarding the present, and protecting the future.
The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) 2018 CF-18 Demo Jet, painted in tribute to this year’s 60th anniversary of NORAD. The CF-18 jet is seen here joined by other jets from RCAF 401 Tactical Fighter Squadron, the RAMS. Photo Courtesy: Mike Reyno / SKIES Magazine
“As the Commander of the Canadian NORAD Region, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase the important NORAD mission and our important bi-national partnership through the 2018 National CF-18 Demonstration program,” said Major-General Christian Drouin, the commander of 1 Canadian Air Division/Canadian NORAD Region. “The men and women of NORAD work diligently to keep watch over our countries and to protect the air sovereignty of North America. Twenty four hours a day, seven days a week, no matter what – we have the watch.”
The jet was unveiled to the world earlier this week at 4 Wing Cold Lake in Alberta, which is the busiest fighter base in Canada, and was painted by Aircraft Structures Technicians at 1 Air Maintenance Squadron at 4 Wing Cold Lake.
The big inspiration behind the design is the NORAD crest; all the elements of the paint job are taken from that. The colors key off of that too, with red and white colors representing the Canadian flag, and red white and blue representing the American flag, taking blue out of the NORAD crest as well. A wing-type shape on the wings reflects Canada’s famous Northern Lights, as well as radar sweeps, and is combined into one element. Lightning bolts shoot down the jet’s backside too, again taken from the NORAD crest, while a sword, star and maple leaf grace the jet’s tail.
“The design changed many may times, I’ve got about 65 different drawings for this airplane before it finally ended up at this design“, said Lead Designer, Reserve Captain Jeff Chester. “I hope that this design can be a badge of honor for all the men and women who stand the watch 24/7 in NORAD across Canada and the U.S.”
The 2018 CF-18 in action. Photo Credit: 4 Wing Imaging
Capt Chester was mentored by world-renowned aircraft paint designer Jim Belliveau, who is well known for producing such incredible works of art on other aircraft in years past.
According to the RCAF, NORAD is supported in Canada by the Canadian NORAD Region (CANR), headquartered in Winnipeg, Man., and the Canadian Air Defence Sector (CADS) at 22 Wing North Bay, Ontario. CANR maintains CF-18 aircraft on standby at 3 Wing and 4 Wing, along with CC-130T Hercules air-to-air refuellers operating from Winnipeg, in support of the NORAD mission.
“Painting the new Demo jet requires a lot of preparation, outlining the design, preparing the surface, sanding, masking and cleaning, this job is 90% preparation and 10% painting“, said Corporal Daniel Jacobs. “There are a lot of minor intricacies that are involved to make the jet come out the way that it will. It is a special aircraft for more than just us, for everybody that will go to see it.”
Captain Stefan Porteous has been appointed as the pilot for the 2018 CF-18 Demonstration Team. Photo Credit: DND
Piloting this year’s CF-18 demo is Captain Stefan Porteous, a native of Comox, British Columbia, home of the RCAF’s 19 Wing, which also happens to be where both the CF-18 and Snowbirds teams conduct their spring training at before kicking off the air show season.
“I am extremely honoured to have been selected as Canada’s 2018 National CF-18 Demonstration Team pilot,” said Captain Porteous. “I am very much looking forward to commemorating 60 years of NORAD at air shows throughout the summer while having the opportunity to be part of a highly dedicated team that will work together to put on thrilling performances aimed at demonstrating the professionalism and skill of the men and women of the RCAF. I look forward to meeting as many people as possible over the course of the coming demonstration season.”
The Royal Canadian Air Force 2018 CF-18 Demo Jet in action, painted in tribute to this year’s 60th anniversary of NORAD. Photo Courtesy: Mike Reyno / SKIES Magazine
Now, Capt Porteous and the CF-18 team are at 19 Wing Comox for spring training, before kicking off their 2018 air show season at the Power in the Pines Open House and Air Show in Trenton, New Jersey May 5-6, followed by the NORAD 60th Anniversary Air Show in Colorado Springs, Colorado May 11-12.
All total the team is scheduled to perform at 26 air shows this year, including two in the United Kingdom at Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, and at the Royal International Air Tattoo at Royal Air Force Fairford.
The entire 2018 CF-18 Demo Jet paint team. Photo Credit: OS Justin Spinello
Check out the CF-18 Team’s full 2018 schedule HERE.
– Special thanks to Mike Reyno, Editor of SKIES Magazine, for his exceptional photography featured in this story. Subscribe to SKIES for his upcoming story on the 2018 CF-18 Team, where more unreleased images will be published of this beautiful jet in action.
– Follow Mike Killian on Instagram and Facebook, @MikeKillianPhotography.
LAS VEGAS — The Air Force Thunderbirds released the identification of the pilot lost in Wednesday’s crash of an F-16 Fighting Falcon during a training exercise in a brief statement issued today.
The Thunderbirds jets were in the air over the squadron’s Nevada Test and Training Range north of their base at Las Vegas when someting went wrong causing Thunderbird 4 to crash in the isolated region. The Thunderbirds six jets were conducting a normal practice flight on Wednesday morning to reherse for this weekend’s air show at March ARB in California.
The crash killed Thunderbird 4 pilot Major Stephen “Cajun” Del Bagno. The team’s new slot pilot, Maj. Del Bagno, 34, was a certified F-35A Lightning II pilot stationed at Eglin, AFB, Florida. He served as an F-35A evaluator pilot and Chief of Standardization and Evaluation at Eglin’s 58th Fighter Squadron. This season marked his first with the team.
Major Stephen “Cajun” Del Bagno describes the hi-tech layout of his then F-35 Lightning II helmet in 2017. (Charles Atkeison)
“We are mourning the loss of Major Del Bagno,” Brig. Gen. Jeannie Leavitt, 57th Wing Commander, said on Thursday. “He was an integral part of our team and our hearts are heavy with his loss. We ask everyone to provide his family and friends the space to heal during this difficult time.”
The Air Force are now conducting a full investigation.
The slot pilot is the tail of the Thunderbirds four jets which make-up the diamond formation. The two solo jets are Thunderbird 5 and 6. The jets were at the beginning of their routine practice demonstration over the field located north of Las Vegas.
America’s Ambassadors in Blue have completed the first two of 62 planned flight demonstrations of their 65th anniversary season. They have cancelled their appearence at March ARB, and will likely not attend next weekend’s Sun-N-Fun air show in Lakeland, Fla.
Wednesday’s accident marks the third Thunderbirds crash in the past 22 months, and only their first casualty in 36 years. In June 2016, an F-16C Thunderbird 6 pilot had a ditch near Colorado Springs, Colorado, due to mechanical issue with the pilot ejecting safely. And, last June, a two-seat F-16D, piloted by current Thunderbird 8 Maj. Erik Gonsalves, flipped on landing due to inclemet weather in Dayton, Ohio, as the squadron prepared for an air show.
The death of Major Del Bagno is the Thunderbird’s first aircraft casulty in 36 years.
The Air Force Thunderbirds diamond formation. Maj. Del Bagno soars recently in the slot, or rear, position. (Charles Atkeison)
Led by new squadron leader and Thunderbird 1, Lt. Col. Kevin Walsh, the Thunderbirds 2 thru 6 pilots include Capt. Will Graeff, Maj. Nate Hofmann, Maj. Del Bagno, Maj. Whit Collins, and Capt. Matt Kimmel.
The Thunderbirds mission is designed to recruit the next generation of Airmen; to retain the Air Force’s highly trained warfighters; and to inspire young adults around the world.
(Charles A. Atkeison flew V.I.P. with the USAF Thunderbirds recently. He reports on aerospace and science. Follow his updates on social media via @Military_Flight.)
