NAS Key West Southernmost Air Spectacular Program

To

SCAN

NAVY

KEY WEST

200 BICENTENNIAL

Lt. Matthew Perry recorded logbook on March 22, 1822, of the USS Shark approach to Key West; Lithograph of Key West in 1855 by Chandler & Company.*

welcome to NAVAL AIR STATION Key West

On behalf of the men and women who serve and work at Naval Air Station Key West, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2023 Southernmost Air Spectacular featuring YOUR U.S. Navy Blue Angels! It is our hope that you will enjoy this exciting event with your family and friends.

The Navy has a long and proud history in the Southernmost City of the continental U.S. On March 25, 1822, Lt. Matthew Perry arrived in Key West aboard USS Shark to survey the island for a possible Navy port, planting a flag and claiming the island U.S. territory. The following year in 1823, Commodore David Porter returned with “The Mosquito Fleet” and built the first U.S. Navy buildings, establishing the Navy’s presence on the island. This year we celebrate 200 years of a Navy base in Key West!

The first naval flight recorded from Key West was on September 22, 1917, with Coast Guard Lt. Stanley Parker flying a Curtiss N-9 seaplane. On December 19, 1917, Naval Air Station Key West was established. Since then, the installation has served as a training facility preparing hundreds of thousands of aviators from all services, as well as allied nations, to preserve peace and protect the nation. NAS Key West is currently the Navy’s premier air-to-air combat training station and also home to a bustling port facility.

We have also selected very talented civilian performers for the Southernmost Air Spectacular. These performers have spent thousands of hours developing their amazing and exciting aerobatic acts.

The skill and training required by military aviators is evident in the U.S. Navy’s Flight Demonstration Squadron the Blue Angels. The incredible maneuvers the Blue Angels perform are actually the same fundamental maneuvers that are employed in aerial combat.

Spectacular flying, static displays, souvenirs and concessions. We are glad you are here to see your military in action!

Capt. Beth Regoli

Commanding Officer

Naval Air Station Key West

A watercolor copy of Lt. Perry’s USS Shark (1821-46). Copied from “Charles Steedman, Rear Admiral, USN.” NHHC Photograph Collection, NH 80398. In 1822 the American flag was raised over the island of Key West for the first time.

We salute John Picco (left) and Matt

both Key West locals, for their service to our nation. Picco was commissioned into the Navy in 1993, earning the Navy Wings of Gold and flew in 9 di erent squadrons.

A Top Gun graduate, Picco has over 3000 flight hours, 800 carrier landings and 80 combat missions.

Matt Pearce has over 24 years of service in the United States Marine Corps and Navy. With over 50 combat missions, Pearce is the VFC-111 Public A airs O cer and the F-5 Program Manager.

Pearce,

Whether you want to snorkel among the only living coral barrier reefs in the U.S., have an unforgettable dolphin experience or simply relax with a cocktail by the adults-only pool, we’ve got it all in one place so you can choose to do everything or nothing at all.

static aircraft displays

TURBOS. PROPS. Choppers.

Impressive military and civilian aircraft displays located along the flight line. The military side provides an up-close look at Naval airpower. Static displays listed in random order and subject to change without notice.

MILITARY AVIATION (pictured)

1. MH-65 Dolphin, 2. MH-60J Jayhawk, 3. T-6 Texan II, 4. C-17 Globemaster III, 5. C-5 Galaxy, 6. C-21 Lear Jet, 7. F-5N Tiger II, 8. F-16 Falcon, 9. L-39 Albatross, 10. H-135 Airbus, 11. HC-144 Ocean Sentry

CIVILIAN AVIATION

Bell 206L4, NASA H-135, AS350 B2, Britten Norman, Piper PA28-140, Cessna

172H, Airbus Helo, Vultee BT-13 Valiant, Aero Commander, OH-58 Beechcraft

King Air 90, Beechcraft Bonanza, Beechcraft G36, Beechcraft F33A, Velocity

XL, Cessna Caravan, Beechcraft Baron, Rockwell Commansder 112A, Robinson R44

Clipper II, Piper Comanchee, Piper Arrow IV, American Citabria

NON-AVIATION

Monroe Marauders WWII Vehicles, Southernmost Car Club, American Traveling

Tribute Wall - 80% scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

On September 22, 1917, USCG Lt. Stanley Parker piloted a Curtiss N-9 seaplane from land leased from the Florida East Coast Railway, known today as Trumbo Point.

THE

devoted to service. pioneer. unrivaled love of aviation.

AIR BOSS

Wayne Boggs

ICAS member and air show Air Boss Wayne Boggs was inducted into the International Council of Air Shows Hall of Fame in 2019 and was made “Honorary Flight Lead,” (Boss) by the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Team the Blue Angels in 2022.

In 2016 Boggs became an honorary member of SOCOM Para-commandos and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. In 2017 Boggs became an honorary member of the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Team the Blue Angels. Boggs is also an honorary member of the former aerobatic team Red Barons and the U.S. Army Golden Knights.

Boggs was named as the 2012 recipient of the ICAS Sword of Excellence. He was cited for the leadership role he has played within the air show community during the last quarter century. In addition to his work as an air show “air boss”/aerial choreographer, Boggs serves on the Board of Directors of both the ICAS Foundation, EAA’s Warbirds of America and he has been a leader in helping to train aspiring air bosses. A former air traffic control professional, Boggs joins a list of past recipients that includes Bob Hoover, Paul Poberezny, Charlie Hillard, Leo Loudenslager, Sean Tucker and Patty Wagstaff.

Air Boss Wayne Boggs was the recipient of the USAF Commander’s Public Service Award presented at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona; Wayne and USAF Thunderbirds #8 Major Scott Petz Advance Pilot/Narrator.

BROADCASTING UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

showman. encyclopedia of aviation knowledge. riveting the crowd - putting you in the cockpit.

ANNOUNCER Rob Reider

Rob Reider is the most sought-after announcer on the North American Air Show circuit. His talents have earned him the highest award in the air show industry, the International Council of Air Shows “Sword of Excellence.”

A former midwest television personality, Rob received five Emmy awards for his onair performance and musical compositions. Rob announced his first air show in 1978 and made it his full-time vocation in 2006. Since then he’s announced over 250 shows from Maine to California to Japan. He’s known in the flying world as the on-camera host of the award-winning Sporty’s Pilot Shops “Learn to Fly” videos, helping thousands of people around the world to earn their pilots licenses and advanced ratings.

One of the highlights of his career was in 2015 when he was selected to narrate the “Arsenal of Democracy Capitol Flyover,” commemorating the end of World War II in Europe. At that event more than 50 vintage World War II aircrafts flew over Washington, DC, honoring those who served and sacrificed for our freedom. 2016 was also a banner year for Rob as he was tapped to be the voice of the Breitling Jet Team’s American Tour. Based in France, they are the largest civilian aerobatic team in the world flying jets, bringing the message of Breitling timepieces to air show audiences all over the world.

Rob Reider and Air Boss Wayne Boggs are both honorary members of the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Team the Blue Angels.

fast. fervor. ferocious - inspiring excellence.

U.S. NAVY Blue Angels

A total of 16 officers voluntarily serve with the Blue Angels. Each year the team typically selects three tactical (fighter or fighter/attack) jet pilots, two support officers and one Marine Corps C-130 pilot to relieve departing members.

The Chief of Naval Air Training selects the “Boss,” the Blue Angels Commanding Officer. Boss must have at least 3,000 tactical jet flight-hours and have commanded a tactical jet squadron. The Commanding Officer flies the Number 1 jet. The Chief of Naval Air Training also selects the “XO,” the Blue Angels Executive Officer. XO is a Naval Flight Officer (NFO) or Naval Aviator with at least 1,750 flight-hours.

Career-oriented Navy and Marine Corps jet pilots with an aircraft carrier qualification and a minimum of 1,250 tactical jet flight-hours are eligible for positions flying jets Number 2 through 7. The Events Coordinator, Number 8, is a Naval Flight Officer (NFO) or Naval Aviator who has finished their first tour. The Marine Corps pilots flying the C-130J Hercules aircraft, affectionately known as “Fat Albert,” must be aircraft commander qualified with at least 1,200 flight hours.

Career-oriented officers specializing in maintenance, administration, aviation medicine, public affairs and supply fill support positions. The Blue Angels base their selection of officers on professional ability, military bearing and communication skills. Blue Angels officers are well-rounded representatives of their fleet counterparts.

Officers typically serve two years with the team. Blue Angels officers return to the fleet after their tours of duty.

The mission of the Blue Angels is to showcase the teamwork and professionalism of the United States Navy and Marine Corps through flight demonstrations and community outreach while inspiring a culture of excellence and service to country.

U.S. Navy Blue Angels over Navy housing on Sigsbee Park, Key West, 1975. Provided by State Archives of Florida; Pilots photographed on the runway while the demonstration team flies in formation behind them - c. 1953.

“FAT ALBERT”

HER CUL ES C-130

tactical transport. aviation workhorse. U.S. NAVY Hercules

The Blue Angels’ maintenance and support crew travel aboard a Marine Corps C-130 Hercules aircraft, affectionately known as “Fat Albert.” The C-130 is a tactical transport aircraft built by Lockheed Martin and is flown by an all-Marine crew consisting of three pilots and five enlisted aircrew.

First integrated into the team in 1970, Fat Albert now flies more than 100,000 miles each season carrying approximately 45 maintenance and support personnel along with the specialized equipment needed to complete a successful air show.

Every show week, Fat Albert departs Pensacola in advance of the demonstration jets to prepare for their arrival at each show site. The Blue Angels could not perform without this versatile aircraft.

Fat Albert weighs 155,000 pounds fully loaded, is powered by four Rolls-Royce turboprop engines producing more than 18,000 shaft horsepower and cruises at speeds of more than 320 knots (approximately 370 miles per hour) at altitudes as high as 35,000 feet. Fat Albert was designed as a tactical transport aircraft capable of lifting heavy payloads into and out of unimproved airstrips as short as 2,500 feet long.

Additionally, Marine Corps KC-130s provide aerial delivery and in-flight refueling of jet, helicopter and tilt rotor aircraft in support of world-wide military operations. The mission of the Blue Angels is to showcase the teamwork and professionalism of the United States Navy and Marine Corps through flight demonstrations and community outreach while inspiring a culture of excellence and service to country.

Scan the QR code with your smartphone to watch a video of the Fat Albert pilots and crew conducting inspections and maintenance at MCAS Miramar. Take a closer look at what they’ve been up to!

No. 1

CDR ALEXANDER ARMATAS | USN Flight Leader Commanding Officer

No. 2

LCDR CHRIS KAPUSCHANSKY | USN Right Wing

No. 3

LT AMANDA LEE | USN Left Wing

No. 7

LCDR THOMAS ZIMMERMAN | USN Narrator

No. 8

LCDR BRIAN VAUGHT | USN Events Coordinator

CDR JON FAY | USN Executive Officer

LT HENRY CEDEÑO | USN Maintenance Officer

LCDR GREGORY JONES | USN Assistant Maintenance Officer

No. 4

LT SCOTT GOOSSENS | USN Slot

No. 5

LCDR JULIUS BRATTON | USN Lead Solo

No. 6

LCDR GRIFFIN STANGEL | USN Opposing Solo

CAPT JACKSON STREIFF | USMC C-130 “Fat Albert” Pilot

MAJ JOSHUA SOLTAN | USMC C-130 “Fat Albert” Pilot

CAPT SAMUEL PETKO | USMC C-130 “Fat Albert” Pilot

LT PHILIPPE WARREN | USN Flight Surgeon

LT PAUL KRUGER | USN Supply Officer

su p port team EST’ D 1949

OPERATING IN EVERY CAPACITY TO ENSURE THE SQUADRON IS MISSION READY AND MISSION CAPABLE

teamwork. professionalism. command readiness.

SQUADRON Maintenance & Support

The Blue Angels’ maintenance and support team is comprised of approximately 100 enlisted Sailors and Marines. Alternating crews of about 45 team members travel to each show site.

All career-oriented enlisted Sailor or Marine applicants come recommended for Blue Angel duty by their current commanding officer. Applicants go through extensive screening, including interviewing with the members of each of the 15 squadron work centers. The keen selection process secures the squadron’s tradition of excellence, ensuring the Blue Angels are a direct reflection of the professionalism of today’s Sailors and Marines. After completing their Blue Angel tour, individuals return to the fleet to continue their naval careers.

Selected enlisted personnel volunteer for a three-year tour with the squadron. Though every team member brings skills in a distinct job specialty, each is expected to work beyond that specialty, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the Blue Angels. The squadron consists of seven distinct departments, jointly responsible for guaranteeing command readiness. A tribute to this dedicated team is the fact that the Blue Angels have never canceled an air show due to a maintenance problem.

Career-oriented support teams specializing in maintenance, administration, aviation medicine, public affairs and supply fill positions. The Blue Angels base their selection of officers and enlisted on ability, military bearing and communication skills.

Proud to sponsor the NAS Key West

Southernmost Air Spectacular!

Rob

discovery. expansion. legendary aviation.

NAVAL Bicentennial IN KEY WEST

The Navy’s history in Key West is 200 years long and proud. In the early 1800’s, naval origins have been traced to combating piracy in the region, subsequently in the 1860s, capturing slave ships and at one point freeing 1,432 captive Africans. During the Civil War, the Navy organized a blockade squadron preventing the import of Confederate war supplies from overseas ports. The Union’s strategic hold on Key West is said to have shortened the war by several years due to the South’s inability to maintain open supply lines.

During the Spanish-American War the entire U.S. Atlantic Fleet moved to Key West for the duration. World War I brought greater expansion to the Navy footprint in Key West with the establishment of a Navy submarine base at what is now Truman Annex. Seaplanes operating from Trumbo Point supported the WWII war effort. Monroe County, also celebrating 200 years in 2023, provided a seldom-used county airport on Boca Chica Key for Army fixed-wing aircraft. Boca Chica Field was eventually transferred to the Navy to become a part of NAS Key West.

Reconnaissance and operational flights began October 22, 1962, in support of the Cuban blockade during the Cuban Missile Crisis. President John F. Kennedy visited NAS Key West afterwards to thank service members and their families for their contributions during the crisis.

The superior, year-round flying weather and strategic location of the southernmost air station has allowed NAS Key West to develop into what it is today: a state-ofthe-art training facility for air-to-air combat fighter aircraft of all military services.

JFK visits Key West after the Cuban Missile Crisis; Lt. Matthew Perry arrived in Key West on March 25, 1822, claiming the island U.S. territory.

fighters. seahawks. legacies.

PERFORMERS: Military

VFC- 111 “SUN DOWNERS”

U.S. NAVY RESERVE ADVERSARY SQUADRON

VFC-111 is the U.S. Navy’s premier Fleet Adversary squadron. Located at NAS Key West, FL on Boca Chica Field, the squadron is tasked with training and preparing our nation’s front-line fighter aircraft to ensure their effectiveness. The unit, also known as the Sun Downers, currently operates the supersonic and highly maneuverable Northrop F-5N Tiger II, the same aircraft featured in the 1986 blockbuster movie “TOP GUN.” All of the Sun Downer aviators are former F/A-18 Hornet pilots and most are TOP GUN graduates.

U.S. SOCOM PARA-COMMANDOS PARACHUTE TEAM

The Para-Commandos comprises U.S. Special Operations Command personnel headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Fla. Most are combat veteran special operators from the U.S. Army Special Forces or Rangers, the U.S. Air Force’s Special Tactics Squadrons, U.S. Navy SEALs, or U.S. Marine Corps Special Operations Raiders.

LEGACY FLIGHT

FUN FACT: The Legacy Flight was set up by the Navy to honor the people and aircraft who have defended our nation. The flight features modern U.S. Navy fighters in formation with Swamp Fox P-51 Mustang.

SEARCH AND RESCUE

Operational and deployed today with the U.S. Navy as the primary anti-submarine warfare anti-surface weapon system for open ocean and littoral zones, the MH-60S Seahawk helicopter is the world’s most advanced maritime helicopter. It is the most capable naval helicopter available today designed to operate from frigates, destroyers, cruisers and aircraft carriers.

Scan the QR codes with your smartphone to watch thrilling, on-the-edge-of-your-seat videos or to read more information about the performers and what to expect at the 2023 NAS Key West Southernmost Air Spectacular.

Military performers continued

F- 35A LIGHTNING II DEMONSTRATION TEAM

The primary mission of the 388th Fighter Wing is to maintain combat readiness to deploy, employ and sustain F-35A Lightning II aircraft worldwide in support of the national defense. The 388 FW is assigned to Air Combat Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, and below that, Fifteenth Air Force, DavisMonthan Air Force Base, Arizona. ACC’s mission is to provide the world’s best combat air forces, delivering rapid, decisive air power, anytime, anywhere.

SHARE YOUR IMAGES WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA. We want to see vacation snaps, glamorous selfies and family portraits. Type in one hashtag or all three. #keywestairshow #naskeywest #southernmostairspectacular

aerobatics. jarring engines. precision pairing.

PERFORMERS: Civilian

AEROSHELL AEROBATIC TEAM

The AeroShell Aerobatic Team performs tight, awe-inspiring formation aerial maneuvers in front of millions of airshow fans all over North America. With Mark Henley, team lead; Bryan Regan, right wing; Steve Gustafson, left wing; and Jimmy Fordham, slot; this four-ship of T-6 Texan aircraft perform a series of loops, rolls and bomb bursts in close formation for a classic aerobatic routine.

BILL STEIN

Bill’s passion for precision flying is evident in his dazzling air show routine. His experience includes competitive aerobatics and years of flying on the world-famous Red Baron Stearman Squadron. Bill also gives back to the air show community by mentoring new air show pilots, including coaching the “Stars of Tomorrow” team, which have performed at many prestigious air shows including the EAA AirVenture Air Show.

ROB HOLLAND

One of the most decorated, respected and innovative aerobatic pilots and airshow performers in the world today. Flying the MXS-RH, an all carbon-fiber aerobatic airplane designed and built by MX Aircraft. Record-setting winner of eight consecutive U.S. National Aerobatic Championships, four-time world Freestyle Aerobatic Championships and the International Council of Airshows (ICAS) prestigious Art Scholl Award for Showmanship, the highest honor any airshow pilot can receive, Rob has distinguished himself by blazing a trail of innovation, developing maneuvers never before seen at airshows.

Bill Stein’s aerobatic scribbles, mounted to his instrument panel; Scan the QR codes with your smartphone to watch videos about the performers and the machines they handle.

AFTERSHOCK JET FIRE TRUCK

The Aftershock Jet Fire Truck is a 1940 Ford Fire Truck that boasts TWIN Rolls-Royce Bristol Viper Jet Engines totaling over 24,000 horsepower and holds the Guinness Record for Fire Trucks at an amazing 407 MPH!

This year’s air show is dedicated to Chris Darnell, driver of the Shockwave Jet Truck we have all grown to love. Chris has been a part of the NAS Key West Southernmost Air Spectacular since 2013 and has been such an integral part of our air show family. Sadly, he lost his life in a crash during the 2022 season. We honor him and his family for their dedication to the industry and he will always be remembered here at NAS Key West.

PRECISION EXOTICS

The idea for pairing exotic cars with airshows was born from the experiences of its founder Eric Nelson. At a young age Eric developed an affinity for speed, precision driving and military aircraft. Recognizing the demand from the general public for access to such machines is what led to the creation of Precision Exotics and their products. In just a few years, Precision has become a recognizable name in the industry, attended over 120 shows, won a Pinnacle Award and cemented itself as the industry leader in exotic car driving experiences.

SKIP STEWART

Skip has proven to be one of the most entertaining air show pilots in the world today. He is the first pilot to fly an airplane under a jumping motorcycle at an air show. Prometheus the flying machine is part Pitts Special and the rest is the vision of Skip Stewart. Starting life as a Pitts S-2S, Prometheus was modified to give Skip the airshow machine he wanted. This flying machine looks like a good-old American hot rod. The horsepower was increased to 400 and the paint job yells “street rod.”

Prometheus, flown by Skip Stewart, was a rebel titan who displeased Zeus by taking from him and giving to the people of earth the power of fire. The name matches the paint design with its hot rod style flame job.

Photo by Cari Miller

entertainment / helpful information

ATM

Keys Federal Credit Union will have ATM’s on site during the air show. The mobile unit will be centrally located in the second row of vendors. All food and beverage booths will be accepting credit card payment.

EXTREME DRIVE EXPERIENCE

Precision Exotics will be at the air show providing an ‘Extreme Drive Experience’ to patrons. Take a ride in an exotic car ON THE RUNWAY for a once-in-alifetime opportunity. The cost is $199 per ride, video of ride for $29 each and incar photos for $5 each. Patrons will be required to sign a hold harmless agreement prior to participation. The team will be set up on the east side of the tarmac by the civilian static aircraft and rides will be available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

FOOD & BEVERAGE VENDORS

Four beverage tents will be available to the general public located throughout Vendor Row. Beverages will include water and soda as well as beer and wine. Full-service bars are available along the back side of the reserved seating area. A variety of food booths will be located on Vendor Row available for the general public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

INFO TENT & MEDICAL TENT

There will be a Medical Tent along with an Information Tent on the far west and east side of Vendor Row. Stop by to find out what is available at the event and where things are located. The medical tent is available for lost and found and medical attention. We encourage our guests to stay hydrated, bring sunscreen and hats or umbrellas. The tarmac gets quite hot and people will be susceptible to heat exhaustion and sun burns.

KID’S ZONE

The air show Kid’s Zone will be filled with inflatable rides, slides, a bungee jump and bounce houses for children of all ages. It will be located along the back of the air field next to the terminal. Tickets will be available for purchase.

MERCHANDISERS

Located on Vendor Row, multiple novelty vendors will be selling aviation-specific merchandise along with other local Key West businesses. NAS Key West will have Southernmost Air Spectacular branded t-shirts, hats, coins, bags and more.

PREFERRED EXHIBITORS

Located on Vendor Row, a number of preferred exhibitors will be displaying their businesses and organizations. There will be product sampling, information packets, handouts and giveaways/raffles.

SPONSORS

TITLE

PRESENTING

Florida Keys Media

Key West Adventures

Key West

International Airport

Ocean Key Resort & Spa

Two Oceans Digital

ASSOCIATE

Broadwave

Budweiser

Captain Hook’s

Keys Weekly

Signature Flight Support

PATRIOT

CoCo’s Monkey

Four Star Rentals

Hawks Cay Resort

Historic Tours of America

Keys Federal Credit Union

La Concha Hotel & Spa

Lower Keys Medical Center

Navy Mutual

Opal Key Resort and Marina

Sidus Space

CONCH

American Legion Post 28

Docklight Productions

Fury Water Adventures

Hyatt Centric

Key West Resort & Spa

Keys Car Doctor

Key West Golf Club

Key West Pipeline

Key West Swimwear

Refreshment

Services Pepsi

Waste Management

We’ve Got the Keys

BUBBA

Cayo Hueso Brewing

College of the

Florida Keys

Destination Catering

Keys Pediatrics

Navy League

Key West Council

Rams Head Southernmost

Southernmost VFW

Post 3911

MARRIOTT KEY WEST BEACHSIDE

CUZZY

Betty Scherck

Carl & Nancy Weiner

Doubletree by Hilton

Grand Key Resort

Fred Bushey

Gidget Johns

John North

Jim & Jolene Scholl

Key West

Fine Art Services

Key West

Sports Academy

Love in Bloom

Military Affairs

Committee

Pirate Radio

Ray Monberg

Rick’s & Durty Harry’s

Saint Leo University

Sunrise Rotary

Sunset Rotary

Warren & Abby Leamard