Wednesday, July 1, 2026

The Unsung Heroes of the Blue Angels: Meet the Support Crew

Photos and article by Joe Pellicone

When the U.S. Navy Blue Angels roar across the sky in perfect diamond formations, all eyes are on the pilots. But behind the six roaring F/A-18 Super Hornets is a dedicated, highly trained team working tirelessly on the ground. Known as the support crew or maintainers, this group of roughly 100 enlisted Sailors and Marines is the true backbone of the squadron.

Without their precision, the jets would never leave the runway.

Hand-Picked from the Fleet

Members of the Blue Angels support crew are not randomly assigned. They are hand-picked from active-duty Navy and Marine Corps units worldwide. Every applicant undergoes a rigorous screening process that evaluates their technical expertise, military bearing, and ability to work under extreme pressure. Those selected serve a prestigious two- to three-year tour with the team before returning to the fleet.

A Culture of Zero Mistakes

In a world where pilots fly just inches apart at 700 miles per hour, mechanical failure is not an option. The maintenance crew operates under a culture of absolute perfection. They are divided into highly specialized teams:

Jet Mechanics (ADs) and Airframe Technicians (AMs): They service the massive engines, hydraulic systems, and flight controls.
Aviation Electricians (AEs) and Avionics Technicians (ATs): They maintain the complex radar, navigation, and communication systems.
Amechs / Safety Equipment Experts (PRs & AMEs): They manage life support systems, ensuring that pilot helmets, G-suits, and ejection seats function flawlessly.

Their dedication pays off: the Blue Angels have never canceled a show due to a maintenance issue. If a jet has a problem, the crew works through the night to fix it or prepare the "Number 7" spare aircraft.

Precision on the Ground

The support crew's job isn't hidden away in a hangar. During airshows, the maintenance team performs the "ground show." Dressed in iconic blue and gold jumpsuits, they move in highly choreographed, synchronized sequences to launch and recover the jets. This sharp, disciplined drill reflects the same precision the pilots display in the air.

While the pilots take the bows, they are the first to credit the men and women on the ground. The Blue Angels support crew embodies the Navy's core values of honor, courage, and commitment, proving that it takes an entire village of elite professionals to touch the sky.

Would you like to explore how "Fat Albert" (the C-130 transport plane) carries this crew and their gear, or should we look into the intense training schedule they undergo before the show season starts?

Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Blue Angels Arrive at Republic Airport for Arresting Gear Test

Blue Angel #7 Arrives at Republic Airport

The first unmistakable sign that the U.S. Navy Blue Angels are returning to Long Island arrived today as Blue Angel #7 touched down at Republic Airport in Farmingdale to conduct an important—but often overlooked—part of the team's preparations for the upcoming air show.

Before the six F/A-18 Super Hornets take to the skies over Jones Beach this Fourth of July weekend, the Navy must first ensure the airport's arresting cable system is fully operational. Installed earlier this week across the runway, the cable provides an emergency means of stopping an aircraft in the unlikely event of a landing emergency. The system is tested each time the Blue Angels deploy to Republic Airport, adding an extra layer of safety for both the pilots and the ground crews supporting the team.

Today's flight featured Blue Angel #7, piloted by Lt. Ronny Haveza, who performed the required arresting gear test before taxiing to the team's temporary operating area at Republic Airport.

One familiar member of the Blue Angels family, however, will be noticeably absent this season. The beloved C-130J Super Hercules "Fat Albert", which traditionally transports maintenance personnel, equipment, and serves as the team's logistical backbone, is currently undergoing extensive maintenance and will not accompany the Blue Angels during the 2026 demonstration season.

The remainder of the Blue Angels are scheduled to arrive at Republic Airport on Wednesday, July 1, at approximately 4:30 p.m., marking the official beginning of their Long Island visit. Aviation enthusiasts and photographers are expected to gather along the airport perimeter for another memorable arrival as the team prepares for one of the nation's premier Independence Day air shows.

For photographers, today's arrival offered a unique opportunity to capture something many spectators never witness—the operational side of the Blue Angels' mission. While the breathtaking aerobatics over Jones Beach capture the public's imagination, every flawless performance begins with meticulous planning, rigorous safety procedures, and essential tests like today's arresting cable evaluation.

As always, Island Photo News will be there to document the team's arrival, practice sessions, and performances throughout the Fourth of July weekend.

Photographs and story by Fred Greco

Sunday, June 28, 2026

New York Harbor Lights Up for Independence Day. An Island Photo News Feature by Fred Greco

New York Harbor Lights Up for America's 250th Birthday

An Island Photo News Feature by Fred Greco

The City Dresses in Red, White & Blue

The evening begins quietly as New York City's skyline is transformed into a patriotic display of red, white, and blue. The Empire State Building, One Vanderbilt, and One World Trade Center illuminate the Manhattan skyline in tribute to America's 250th birthday, while the Statue of Liberty stands watch over New York Harbor. Before the first fireworks burst across the sky, the city itself becomes the opening act—a fitting salute to a nation celebrating two and a half centuries of independence.

Liberty Beneath the Fireworks

As darkness settles over New York Harbor, the celebration shifts from the illuminated skyline to the skies above. Brilliant cascades of gold erupt behind the Statue of Liberty, framing one of America's most enduring symbols with the colors and excitement of Independence Day. For a few unforgettable moments, history and celebration converge as Lady Liberty stands proudly before a backdrop of light, honoring generations of freedom, hope, and opportunity.

A Sight to Behold

The grand finale reveals the true scale of New York City's Independence Day celebration. Fireworks burst simultaneously from barges positioned along both the New York and New Jersey waterfronts, filling the night sky from horizon to horizon. From Brooklyn across the harbor, the panorama captures Lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the brilliant displays stretching across the skyline. Reflections shimmer across the harbor as thousands gather along the waterfront to witness one of the largest and most spectacular Fourth of July celebrations in the nation. For a few magical minutes, New York Harbor becomes a stage where light, color, and patriotism come together in celebration of America's 250th birthday.

Every Fourth of July, New York Harbor offers a celebration unlike any other. This year, as America commemorates 250 years of independence, the city's iconic landmarks and spectacular fireworks serve as a reminder of the enduring ideals that unite us. From the first patriotic lights illuminating the skyline to the final fireworks echoing across the harbor, the evening is more than a celebration—it is a tribute to the nation's history, its people, and the promise of the future.

Photographs and story by Fred Greco | Island Photo News

Blue Angels Return to Jones Beach for America’s 250th Birthday Celebration

by Joe Pellicone

The skies over Long Island will come alive once again as the world-famous United States Navy Blue Angels headline the 2026 FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach. This year's event promises to be extra special as it becomes part of the nation's Semiquincentennial celebration, honoring the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The show will take place on July 5 and 6, following Independence Day festivities and fireworks on July 4. (FourLeaf Air Show)

For generations, the Blue Angels have inspired millions with their precision flying, teamwork, and dedication to excellence. Flying their powerful F/A-18 Super Hornets just feet apart at incredible speeds, the Navy's elite demonstration team continues a tradition that dates back to 1946. Their appearance at Jones Beach is expected to be one of the highlights of the nationwide America 250 celebration. (Wikipedia)

The 2026 FourLeaf Air Show will also feature additional military performers, civilian aerobatic acts, and family-friendly activities along the beautiful shores of Long Island. With Fleet Week New York moving to the July 4th weekend, this year's celebration combines two iconic events into one unforgettable patriotic experience. (FourLeaf FCU)

Whether you're a lifelong aviation enthusiast, a photographer looking for the perfect shot, or a family searching for a memorable summer tradition, Jones Beach will once again be the place to celebrate America's spirit, history, and the men and women who continue to serve our nation. Get your cameras ready—the Blue Angels are coming back to Long Island for a once-in-a-generation celebration. 🇺🇸✈️ (FourLeaf Air Show)