Gulf Shores, Ala. — (GSN) — Formed in 1946 by Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Chester Nimitz to boost naval morale and cultivate public interest in aviation, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels have evolved into one of the world's most recognizable flight demonstration squadrons. While the "Blues" perform for millions of spectators across the country annually, Pensacola, Florida, holds the unique distinction of being their "home".

Originally based in Jacksonville, Florida, the team moved through various locations before permanently relocating to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola in 1955. This move cemented Pensacola’s identity as the "Cradle of Naval Aviation," deeply entwining the city’s culture and economy with the squadron's history.

Pensacola hosts two significant annual events that celebrate this connection:

• Pensacola Beach Air Show: Held each July, this event features the Blues performing over the Gulf of Mexico, drawing vast crowds to the shoreline.
• Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show: This end-of-season event takes place at NAS Pensacola in November, often coinciding with Veterans Day, providing a poignant conclusion to the season as the team returns to its base.

Additionally, from March through November, the public can watch the Blue Angels practice their routines over the National Naval Aviation Museum at NAS Pensacola on select days. These practice sessions offer fans a behind-the-scenes look at the precision and discipline the team employs.

The team’s performance history is defined by constant evolution in both maneuvers and technology:

• Formation & Maneuvers: The famous diamond formation, still performed today, was introduced in 1947 by Flight Leader Lt. Cmdr. Robert “Bob” Clarke.
• Aircraft Progression: The squadron has transitioned through numerous aircraft since its inaugural 1946 season. Starting with the Grumman F6F-5 Hellcat, the team has flown various models including the F8F Bearcat, the F-4 Phantom, and the A-4 Skyhawk. They currently operate the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet.
• Support Aircraft: Since 1949, the team has relied on support aircraft to transport personnel and equipment. The most famous of these is the C-130 Hercules, affectionately known as "Fat Albert," which has transitioned to the modern C-130J Super Hercules platform.

As the team approaches its 80th anniversary in 2026, the relationship between Pensacola/ Alabama Beaches and the Blue Angels remains a cornerstone of the community. Through 80 years of aviation excellence, the squadron has performed for more than 505 million spectators nationwide. However, for the residents of the Gulf Coast, the sight of the blue and gold F/A-18 Super Hornets flying over the city signifies something deeper—a connection to "Our Blues" and a shared pride in the teamwork and professionalism of the United States Navy and Marine Corps.

Obscure Facts About The Blue Angels:

• Lieutenant Commander Roy "Butch" Voris led the first team. They flew four propeller-driven Grumman F6F Hellcats.
• The very first public show was on June 15, 1946, in Florida.
• The team officially took the name "Blue Angels" from a famous nightclub in New York City.
• The "Fly Overs" began as a way for the pilots to announce their arrival home to their families in Jacksonville, Florida.
• Penny Edwards was the first ever enlisted woman to join the team in the 1978 season as an Aviation Electrician. It took some time, though, for women to enter the pilot's seat. In 2014, Katie Higgins became the first ever woman to be a Blue Angels pilot.
• Unanimous voting: Joining the squad is incredibly competitive. Out of thousands of Navy pilots, only six fly in the main show. Every single current team member must vote unanimously to accept a new pilot.