VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — For the Blue Angels, this weekend will mark the Navy precision flight demonstration team's first appearance at Naval Air Station Oceana in four years.
The last time they flew at the East Coast Master Jet Base was in 2018. That's because there was a scheduling conflict in 2019. Then in 2020, COVID-19 hit.
Now they're back and bigger than ever -- quite literally, now that they're flying the F/A-18 Super Hornet.
"And I think you'll find the aircraft with more power and more maneuverability you'll find is a great air show bird. 33% bigger, so it'll be easier to see all over Hampton Roads, much less here at Oceana," said Captain Brian Kesselring, commanding officer of the Blue Angels, known to the team as "Boss."
In his younger days, he flew here at Oceana.
"And to be able to come here and represent our brothers and sisters in arms at the air show is going to be fantastic and we've been looking forward to it all year," he said.
It is a thrill for other members of the Pensacola, Florida-based team.
Maintainer AM1 Sam Smith went to Ocean Lakes High School. Flight Surgeon Lieutenant Commander Monica Borza went to Catholic High School.
"It is incredibly surreal and heartwarming to come home to Virginia Beach, Virginia," said Borza.
"It's really amazing to get to perform in front of a bunch of people from my hometown," said Smith.
This is the Blue Angels' 27th stop on its 34-show schedule this year.
According to the Naval History & Heritage Command, then-Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Chester W. Nimitz ordered the formation of the team after WWII, with the goal of increasing public awareness and appreciation of naval aviation.
The Blue Angels debuted at an airshow in Omaha, Nebraska, in July 1946, with the goal of showcasing 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 the country.
The NAS Oceana Air Show originated in 1953 and has been held nearly every year since.
This year's show takes place Saturday and Sunday.
Gates open to the public daily at 8 a.m. and flying starts at 10 a.m. Best of all, it's free.
The Navy says more than 200,000 people are expected to attend this weekend.