Officers: United Officers, Their Roles and Responsibilities

Captain Greg McWherter is a native of Atlanta, Ga., and graduated from Avondale High School in 1986 where he lettered in football and soccer. He attended The Citadel, where he played NCAA Division 1 soccer for the Bulldogs and graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in 1990. He received his commission through the NROTC program.

Greg reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in June 1990. Greg completed primary flight training in the T-34C Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to NAS Meridian, Miss., for intermediate and advanced flight training in the T-2C Buckeye and TA-4J Skyhawk. He earned his wings of gold in September 1992.

Greg then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (VFA-106), the "Gladiators," at NAS Cecil Field, Fla., for initial training in the F/A-18 Hornet. Upon completion of the Fleet Replacement Squadron, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 131 (VFA-131), the “Wildcats,” where he served as the Landing Signals Officer (LSO), Weapons Training Officer and Quality Assurance Officer. While assigned to VFA-131 Greg completed two deployments to the Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73). He graduated from the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN) in May 1995 and was selected as VFA-131’s Pilot of the Year in 1996.

In March 1997, Greg reported to NAS Fallon, Nev., as a TOPGUN Instructor where he served as a Training Officer and the Navy’s AIM-9M/X, Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System and FA-18 Air-to-Air Employment Subject Matter Expert.

Greg returned to the fleet in March 2000 as Tactics Officer and Department Head for Strike Fighter Squadron 34 (VFA-34), the “Blue Blasters,” at NAS Oceana, Va. While assigned to VFA-34 Greg completed two more Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf deployments aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) and was selected by his peers to receive the 2003 Commander, Naval Air Forces Leadership Award.

In August 2003, Greg reported to the United States Joint Forces Command in Norfolk, Va. Within the Joint Requirements and Integration Directorate (J8), he served as the Joint Close Air Support (JCAS) Branch Chief and was responsible for identifying mission area shortfalls and developing joint solutions through the Department of Defense. During his Joint tour, Greg completed Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) Phase I through the College of Distance Education at the Naval War College.

After completing refresher training in the FA-18 Hornet in March 2006, Greg reported as Executive Officer of Strike Fighter Squadron 192 (VFA-192) stationed at Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi, Japan. He commanded the “World Famous Golden Dragons” through three major deployments aboard USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) from June 2007 until July 2008.

Greg commanded the Blue Angels from November 2008 to November 2010 and, after a brief tour overseeing Navy Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (NROTC) as the Deputy Director for Officer Development at Naval Services Training Command (NSTC), returned to lead the team again in May 2011. He has over 5,000 flight hours and 950 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, two Air Medals (Strike Flight), two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, as well as various campaign and unit awards.

Lieutenant John Hiltz is a native of Fort Mitchell, Ky., and graduated from Covington Catholic High School in 1998 where he lettered in basketball. He attended the University of Notre Dame, where he played basketball, and graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in May 2002. He received his commission through the NROTC program.

John reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in July 2002. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Mentor at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas and transferred to NAS Meridian, Miss., for intermediate and advanced flight training in the T-2C Buckeye and the T-45C Goshawk. He earned his wings of gold in August 2005.

John then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 122 (VFA-122), the “Flying Eagles,” at NAS Lemoore, Calif., for initial training in the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. In August 2006, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 154 (VFA-154), the “Black Knights,” at NAS Lemoore, where he served as the Aviation Electronics Technician Branch Officer, Mission Planning Officer, Public Affairs Officer, Morale Officer, Avionics/Armament Division Officer, Forward Air Controller (FAC-A), and Landing Signals Officer (LSO). While assigned to VFA-154 John completed two deployments aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and flew in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. He also participated in the multilateral international exercises Valiant Shield, Foal Eagle and Northern Edge.

In December 2009, John reported to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 101 (VMFAT-101), the “Sharpshooters,” at MCAS Miramar, Calif., for transition to the F/A-18 C/D Hornet. While serving as an instructor pilot with the “Sharpshooters,” he served as Schedules Officer, Assistant Transition Phase Head, T-34C Mentor pilot, FAC-A, and LSO.

John joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. He has accumulated more than 1,600 flight hours and has 320 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include a Strike Flight Air Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Captain Brandon Cordill is a native of Hemet, Calif., and graduated from Hemet High School in 1998, where he played AAA ice hockey for the San Diego Jr. Gulls. He attended Parks College of Saint Louis University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Science in 2002.

Brandon received his commission after completion of Officer Candidate School and reported to The Basic School (TBS), at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico, Va., in January 2004. He reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in July 2004. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to NAS Kingsville, Texas, for advanced flight training in the T-45A Goshawk. He earned his wings of gold in June 2006.

Brandon then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (VFA-106), the “Gladiators,” at NAS Oceana, Va., for initial training in the F/A-18 Hornet. In July 2007, he reported to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 (VMFA-122), the “Werewolves,” at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, S.C where he served as the Classified Material Control Officer, Squadron Mess Officer, Powerline Division Officer, Airframes Division Officer, Ground Safety Officer, Naval Air Training and Operation Procedures Standardization Officer, Flight Officer, and Assistant Operations Officer. While assigned to VMFA-122, Brandon deployed to Iraq and flew in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He then reported to the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN), at NAS Fallon, Nev., and graduated in March 2010. Brandon again deployed with the “Werewolves” to Afghanistan in November 2010, where he flew in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The squadron earned the 2009 Robert M. Hanson Award as the Marine Corps Association’s Fighter Attack Squadron of the Year.

Brandon joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. He has accumulated more than 1,400 flight hours. His decorations include eight Strike Flight Air Medals, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various personal and unit awards.

Major Brent Stevens is a native of Knoxville, Tenn., and graduated from Farragut High School in 1994. In May 1996, Brent enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserves and reported for training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) Parris Island, S.C. Following recruit training, Brent reported to H Company, 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Marine Division in Knoxville, Tenn. While serving as a combat engineer in the reserves, Brent attended the University of Tennessee where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics in 1999.

Brent received his commission through the Platoon Leaders Class (PLC) program and reported to The Basic School (TBS) at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico, Va. He then reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in November 2000. He completed primary flight training in the T-37B Tweet at Vance Air Force Base, Enid, Okla., and transferred to NAS Meridian, Miss., for intermediate and advanced flight training where he flew the T-2C Buckeye and T-45C Goshawk. He earned his wings of gold in September 2002.

Brent then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (VFA-106), the “Gladiators”, at NAS Oceana, Va., for initial training in the F/A-18 Hornet. In January 2004, he reported to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 (VMFA-232), the “Red Devils” at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar, Calif., where he served as the Powerline Division Officer, Ground Safety Officer, NATOPS Officer, Flight Officer, Assistant Operations Officer, Aviation Safety Officer, Quality Assurance Officer and Landing Signal Officer (LSO). While assigned to VMFA-232, Brent completed multiple Western Pacific deployments aboard USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and flew in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. The squadron earned the 2007 Robert M. Hanson Award as the Marine Corps Association’s Fighter Attack Squadron of the Year.

In April 2008, Brent reported to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 101 (VMFAT-101), the “Sharpshooters,” at MCAS Miramar, Calif. While serving as an instructor pilot with the “Sharpshooters,” he served as a LSO, Air-to-Ground Phase Instructor, Schedules officer, Airframes Division Officer and Out-of Control Flight (OCF) Program Manager.

Brent joined the Blue Angels in September 2010. He has accumulated more than 2,300 flight hours and has 280 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant C.J. Simonsen is a native of Coon Rapids, Minn., and graduated from Coon Rapids High School in 1995 where he lettered in football, track and down hill skiing. In January 1996, he enlisted in the Navy and completed Basic Training at Recruit Training Command (RTC) in Great Lakes, Ill.

C.J. then reported to Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Orlando, Fla., for Machinist Mate “A” school and Nuclear Power School. Upon completion in June 1997, he reported to Naval Nuclear Power Training Unit in Charleston, S.C., to complete his training aboard USS Daniel Webster (SSN 626), where he served as a nuclear machinist mate.

While in Charleston, C.J. was accepted to the Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS) in Newport, R.I., which he completed in May 1998. He then attended the United States Naval Academy, where he ran track, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering in May 2002, and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.

C.J. reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in July 2002. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to NAS Meridian, Miss., for intermediate and advanced flight training in the T-2C Buckeye and T-45C Goshawk. He earned his wings of gold in April 2005.

C.J. then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 122 (VFA-122), the “Flying Eagles,” at NAS Lemoore, Calif., for initial training in the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. In January 2006, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 102 (VFA-102), the “Diamondbacks” at Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi, Japan, where he served as the Airframes Branch Officer, Schedules Officer, Aircraft Division Officer, and Operations Administration Officer and directly contributed to the “Diamondbacks” receiving the 2007 and 2009 Battle “E” for sustained superior performance in an operational environment. While assigned to VFA-102, C.J. completed multiple Western Pacific deployments aboard USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) and USS George Washington (CVN 73). He also participated in several multilateral international exercises with Canadian, South Korean, Thai, Republic of Singapore, Japanese and Australian Marine, Naval and Air Forces.

In February 2009, C.J. reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (VFA-106), the “Gladiators,” at NAS Oceana, Va. While serving as an instructor pilot with the “Gladiators,” he served as the Schedules Officer.

C.J. joined the Blue Angels in September 2009 and he served as the Narrator and VIP pilot in 2010 and as the Opposing Solo pilot in 2011. He has accumulated more than 2,200 hours and 379 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant David Tickle is a native of Birmingham, Ala., and graduated from Jefferson County International Baccalaureate School in 1998. He attended the United States Naval Academy earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering in 2002, and was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.

David reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in July 2002. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to NAS Meridian, Miss., for intermediate and advanced flight training in the T-2C Buckeye and T-45C Goshawk. He earned his wings of gold in April 2005.

David then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (VFA-106), the “Gladiators,” at NAS Oceana, Va., for initial training in the F/A-18C Hornet. In February 2006, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 136 (VFA-136), the “Knighthawks,” also at NAS Oceana where he served as the Squadron Mess Officer, Public Affairs Officer, Aircraft Division Officer, Naval Air Training and Operation Procedures Standardization (NATOPS) Officer, Assistant Schedules Officer, Air to Air Weapons and Tactics Officer, Quality Assurance Officer and Landing Signals Officer (LSO). While assigned to VFA-136, David completed deployments aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65), and flew in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Upon completion of the second deployment, David transitioned along with VFA-136 to the F/A-18E Super Hornet.

In February 2009, David reported to the Training Squadron 9 (VT-9), the “Tigers,” at NAS Meridian, Miss. While serving as an instructor pilot with the “Tigers,” he served as the Instructor Under Training Standardization Officer and LSO.

David joined the Blue Angels in September 2010 and served as the Narrator and VIP pilot in 2011. He has accumulated more than 1,800 flight hours and 261 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include two Strike Flight Air Medals, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Mark Tedrow is a native of Charleroi, Penn., and graduated from Charleroi Area High School in 2000, where he lettered in football and basketball. He attended the United States Naval Academy, where he played football, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in History in May 2004 and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.

Mark reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla. for aviation indoctrination in June 2004. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Mentor at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, and transferred to NAS Kingsville, Texas, for advanced flight training in the T-45A Goshawk. He earned his wings of gold in August 2006.

Mark then reported to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron 101 (VMFAT-101), the “Sharpshooters,” at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar, Calif., for initial training in the F/A-18C Hornet. In November 2007, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 25 (VFA-25), the “Fist of the Fleet,” stationed at NAS Lemoore, Calif., where he served as the Naval Air Training and Operation Procedures Standardization Officer, Public Affairs Officer, Aircraft Division Officer, Schedules Officer, Line Division Officer and Landing Signals Officer (LSO). Mark completed deployments in the Western Pacific and Middle East aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

In November 2010, Mark reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 122 (VFA-122), the “Flying Eagles” at NAS Lemoore, Calif. While serving as an instructor pilot with the “Flying Eagles,” he served as the Ground Safety Officer, Aviation Safety Officer and LSO.

Mark joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. He has accumulated more than 1,300 flight hours and 212 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include the Strike Flight Air Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Commander Todd Royles is a native of Willow Grove, Pa., and graduated from Upper Moreland High School in 1997 where he lettered in football and ice hockey. He attended Pennsylvania State University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Administration of Justice in 2001. He received his commission through the NROTC program.

He reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination and completed Naval Flight Officer Training in the T-34C Mentor, T-39G/N Saberliner and the T-2C Buckeye. He earned his wings of gold in October 2002.

Todd then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 122 (VFA-122), the "Flying Eagles," at NAS Lemoore, Calif., for initial training as a Weapon Systems Officer (WSO) in the F/A-18F Super Hornet. In August 2003, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 41 (VFA-41), the world famous "Black Aces” where he served as the Aircraft Division Officer, AT Branch Officer, Schedules Officer and Public Affairs Officer. Todd completed two Western Pacific deployments aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and flew combat missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

In September 2006, Todd returned to VFA-122 as an Instructor WSO in the F/A-18F Super Hornet. He served as the Training Model Manager, Student Control Officer and Schedules Officer and was selected as a member of the 2007 Super Hornet Tactical Demonstration Team. He was named the 2007 Instructor WSO of the Year, and in March 2008, he graduated from the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN).

In February 2009, Todd reported back to VFA-41 as the Training Officer. He completed a combat deployment aboard USS Nimitz where he flew in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Todd joined the Blue Angels in September 2010. He has accumulated more than 2,200 flight hours and 429 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include two Strike Flight Air Medals, two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various personal and unit awards.

Captain Benjamin Blanton is a native of Ventura County, Calif., and graduated from Nordhoff High School in 1996 where he lettered in baseball and football. In November 1996, Benjamin enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserves and reported for training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego, Calif., in February 1997. Following recruit training, Benjamin reported to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 775 (HMLA-775), the “Coyotes,” at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Pendleton, Calif., where he served as a UH-1N (Huey) Crew Chief and AH-1W (Cobra) mechanic. While serving in the reserves, Benjamin attended the University of California San Diego where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science in 2002.

Benjamin received his commission through the Platoon Leaders Class (PLC) program and reported to The Basic School (TBS) at MCB Quantico, Va. He then reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in July 2003. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, and transferred to Training Squadron 31 (VT-31), also at NAS Corpus Christi, for intermediate and advanced flight training where he flew the T-44 Pegasus. He earned his wings of gold in January 2005.

Benjamin then reported to Marine Aerial Refueling Transport Training Squadron 253 (VMGRT-253) at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, N.C., for initial training in the KC-130 Hercules in January 2006. He reported to Marine Aerial Refueling Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152), the “Sumos,” at MCAS Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, where he served as the Ground Training Officer, Aviation Safety Officer and Assistant Future Operations Officer for Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 36. While assigned to VMGR-152, Benjamin deployed to Thailand and flew in support of Operation Caring Response.

In January 2009, Benjamin reported to Marine Aerial Refueling Transport Squadron 452 (VMGR-452), the “Yankees,” at Stewart Air National Guard Base (ANGB), Newburgh, N.Y., where he served as the Adjutant and Powerline Division Officer. During his time in the fleet, Benjamin flew in support of numerous operations and exercises in Alaska, Canada, Hawaii, Guam, Iwo Jima, Wake Island, the Marshall Islands, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Singapore, Iceland, Portugal, Thailand, Myanmar, Indonesia, Mongolia, Bangladesh, Saipan, American Samoa and Australia.

Benjamin joined the Blue Angels in September 2009. He has accumulated more than 2,000 flight hours. His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various other personal and unit awards.

Captain John Hecker is a native of New Orleans, La., and graduated from Randolph High School in 1990 where he lettered in soccer, basketball and baseball. He attended Auburn University where he participated in competitive water-skiing and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications in 1997.

After working in the television field for five years, John received his commission after completion of Officer Candidates School (OCS), and reported to The Basic School (TBS) at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico, Va., in April 2002. He then reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in February 2003. He complete primary flight training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to Training Squadron 31 (VT-31) at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, for intermediate and advanced flight training where he flew the T-44 Pegasus. He earned his wings of gold in April 2004.

John then reported to Marine Aerial Refueling Transport Training Squadron 253 (VMGRT-253) at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, N.C., for initial training in the KC-130 Hercules. In May 2005 he reported to Marine Aerial Refueling Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152), the “Sumos,” at MCAS Futenma, Okinawa, Japan where he served as the Adjutant, Flight Duty Officer and Future Plans Officer. During this tour, John also worked at the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing (1MAW) as an augment Aviation Transportation Coordination Officer (ATCO), coordinating humanitarian relief efforts for Operation Sea Angel II.

In June 2008, John reported to Training Squadron 6 (VT-6), the “Shooters,” at NAS Whiting Field, Fla. While serving as an instructor pilot with the “Shooters,” he served as the Admin Officer and Aviation Safety Officer. In January 2009, John was awarded the VT-6 Familiarization Flight Instructor of the Quarter. During his time in the fleet, John flew in support of numerous operations and exercises in Japan, Mongolia, South Korea, Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, Iwo Jima, Wake Island, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, American Samoa, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Australia.

John joined the Blue Angels in September of 2010. He has accumulated more than 1800 flight hours. His decorations include two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various personal and unit awards.

Captain A.J. Harrell is a native of Frederick, Md., and graduated from New Life Christian School in 1998, where he lettered in basketball. He attended Anderson University, where he participated in the athletic training program and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology in 2002.

A.J. received his commission through the Platoon Leaders Class-Combined (PLC-C) program and reported to The Basic School (TBS) at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico, Va. He then reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in November 2004. He completed primary flight training in the training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to Training Squadron 31 (VT-31) at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, for intermediate and advanced flight training where he flew the T-44 Pegasus. He earned his wings of gold in August 2006.

A.J. then reported to the 314th Airlift Wing’s C-130 “Center for Excellence” at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark., for initial training in the C-130 Hercules. In April 2007, he reported to Marine Aerial Refueling Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152), the "Sumos," at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Futenma in Okinawa, Japan, where he served as the Adjutant, Flight Duty Officer and the Loadmaster Section Officer in Charge. He participated in numerous operations and exercises including Operation Sea Angel II, Operation Caring Response, Talon Vision, Cobra Gold, Air Warrior Karat and Northern Edge. In August 2010, A.J. was selected to attend Expeditionary Warfare School (EWS) in MCB Quantico, Va., and graduated in August 2011.

A.J. joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. He has accumulated more than 1,050 flight hours. His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Commander Richard Mercado is a native of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, and graduated from West Torrance High School in 1990. In April 1992, he enlisted in the Navy and completed Basic Training at Recruit Training Command (RTC) in San Diego, Calif.

Richard completed Airman Apprentice Training at RTC San Diego and reported to USS Peleliu (LHA 5) stationed in San Diego, Calif., where he served as Aircraft Director and Landing Signalman Enlisted (LSE) in Air Department, V-1 and V-3 Division. During his tour aboard the Peleliu, he qualified as an Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist, completed numerous exercises and deployed to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operations Continue Hope and Distant Runner.

In October 1997, Richard received orders to Naval Air Technical Training Center (NATTC) Pensacola, Fla., as a Shipboard Aircraft Fire Fighting and Aviation Boatswain’s Mate “A” School Instructor, where he earned his Master Training Specialist designation and was promoted to First Class Petty Officer. While at NATTC, he graduated from Excelsior College and was selected to attend Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Naval Aviation Schools Command (NASC) in Pensacola, Fla.

Richard was commissioned an Ensign in January 2002. After completing the Naval Aviation Maintenance Program Manager Course, Richard transferred to Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Eight (HC-8), the “Dragon Whales,” at Naval Station (NS) Norfolk, Va., where he served as Aircraft Division Officer, Assistant Quality Assurance Officer and Material Control Officer.

In July 2005, Richard reported to Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron 11 (HS-11), the “Dragonslayers” at NAS Jacksonville, Fla., where he served as Material Control Officer, Assistant Maintenance Officer and Maintenance/Material Control Officer. While assigned to HS-11, Richard completed two deployments aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. The squadron earned back-to-back Battle “E” awards from Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic and won the 2007 Sikorsky Golden Wrench Award.

In April 2009, Richard reported to Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE), NAS Jacksonville Fla., where he served as Avionics Division Officer and Maintenance/Material Control Officer in support of P-3C “Orion,” C-130 “Hercules,” and H-60 “Seahawk” aircraft. He earned recognition as the 2010 “Maintenance Officer of the Year” and qualified as Professional Aviation Maintenance Officer (PAMO). During his tour, he completed the Defense Acquisition University (DAU) Production, Quality and Manufacturing Level II certification.

Richard joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. His decorations include two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, five Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Commander Jason Smith is a native of Santa Rosa, Calif., and graduated from Montgomery High School in 1995. He attended Yale University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1999. After working in the biotechnology field for two years, Jason was commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy in 2001 through the Health Professions Scholarship Program and returned to school to attend the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. He earned his Doctor of Medicine in 2005.

Jason completed an internship at the Naval Medical Center San Diego in 2006 and, after completing the Military Tropical Medicine program in Bethesda, Md, and Manaus, Brazil, he reported to the Naval Aerospace Medicine Institute in Pensacola, Fla., for training as a flight surgeon. Jason received his Naval Flight Surgeon wings in May 2007.

In June 2007, Jason reported as the Flight Surgeon to Marine Attack Squadron 513 (VMA-513), the “Flying Nightmares,” at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Yuma, Ariz., where he provided medical support to over 300 Marines. With the “Flying Nightmares,” Jason deployed aboard USS Essex (LHD 2) in support of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) on deployment to the Western Pacific, including stops in Japan, the Philippines, and Thailand. In October 2008, Jason attended the United States Air Force Advanced Flight Surgeon training syllabus, “Top-Knife II,” at Luke Air Force Base in Glendale, Ariz.

In June 2009, Jason transferred to Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island in San Diego, Calif., as the Flight Surgeon for the Naval Operational Support Center North Island. He provided medical support to over 3500 U.S. Navy Reservists and helped mobilize over 200 Sailors and Marines in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.

Jason joined the Blue Angels in September 2010. His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Holly Taylor is a native of Simsboro, La., and graduated from Simsboro High School in 1992. In June 1993, Holly enlisted in the Navy and completed Basic Training at Recruit Training Command (RTC) in Orlando, Fla.

Holly completed Storekeeper Class "A" School at Naval Technical Training Center (NTTC), Meridian, Miss., and reported to Naval Air Facility (NAF) Adak, Alaska. In December 1995, she transferred to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133, in Gulfport, Miss. After her tour with NMCB, she reported to NTTC Corry Station, Pensacola, Fla., in January 1998.

In May 2001, Holly was selected for conversion to the Legalman rating, and transferred to the Naval Justice School, Newport, R. I., where she graduated top of her class. In November 2001, she reported to NMCB 74, in Gulfport, Miss., as the Legal Officer where she deployed to Iraq in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, and qualified in Seabee Combat Warfare (SCW) and Fleet Marine Force Warfare (FMF). Her unit, Task Force Mike, was the first to enter Iraq upon the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In September 2005, she transferred to Region Legal Service Office (RLSO) Southwest, San Diego, Calif., where she was promoted to Chief Legalman. She earned her commission as a Limited Duty Officer in January 2007 and reported to Navy Expeditionary Guard Battalion, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, as the Detention Operation Center Officer-in-Charge and Assistant Officer-in-Charge of Detention Camps.

In February 2008, Holly reported to Marine Corps Security Force (MCSF) Battalion, Kings Bay, Ga., where she served as a Division Commander tasked with providing security for the Strategic Weapons Facility Atlantic’s weapons storage and production area. In July 2009, she transferred to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 49 (HSL-49), in San Diego, as the Administrative Department Head and deployed on a one-year Individual Augmentation (IA) back to Navy Expeditionary Guard Battalion, Guantanamo Bay, where she served as the Administrative Department Head and managed five percent of the Navy’s IA’s.

Holly earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Environmental Science from the University of Alabama, in August 2008, and she earned her Master’s Degree in Interactive Technology from the University of Alabama in August 2010.

Holly joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. Her decorations include the Joint Commendation Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, Joint Service Achievement Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Scott Adams is a native of Omaha, Neb., and graduated from Millard North High School in 2001. He attended Hastings College where he played soccer, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration in 2005. Scott then reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for Officer Candidate School and was commissioned an Ensign in May 2007.

Scott reported for Navy Supply Corps School (NSCS), in Athens, Ga., in September 2007, where he completed the Basic Qualification Course. He then reported to Fleet Industrial Supply Center (FISC) Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, Greece, in April 2008, where he served as the Assistant Supply Officer and provided logistics, business and support services to the Navy, Coast Guard, and Military Sealift Command, as well as other joint and allied forces.

In July 2009, Scott reported to USS Nimitz (CVN 68), in Naval Base San Diego, where he served as Hazardous Material Officer, Stock Control Assistant, and Supply Quality Assurance Officer. He completed a Western Pacific/Arabian Gulf deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and qualified as Naval Aviation Supply Officer (NASO) and Surface Warfare Supply Corps Officer (SWSCO).

Scott joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. His decorations include two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medals and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Katie Kelly is a native of Elgin, Ill., and graduated from Larkin High School in 2000 where she lettered in swimming and track. She attended the United States Naval Academy, where she was on the varsity swim team, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in English in 2004, and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy. Upon graduation, Katie participated in the Captain Marshall H. Cox Language Study Program in Paris, France.

Katie reported to the Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS) in Newport, R.I., where she served as an English instructor for the NAPS class of 2005.

In August 2005, she reported to the Defense Information School (DINFOS) in Fort Meade, Md., where she completed the Public Affairs Officer Qualification Course and was designated a Public Affairs Officer.

Katie then reported to the Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific (PACEN). She was assigned as the Assistant Public Affairs Officer to the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), where she completed the maiden deployment to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom and the surge deployment to the Western Pacific. She also participated in the multilateral international exercises Foal Eagle and Valiant Shield.

While at PACEN, Katie served as Media Coordinator for the Commission on the National Guard and Reserves, Media Officer for San Francisco Fleet Week, Production Coordinator for the 65th Anniversary Pearl Harbor Commemoration Ceremony and Strategic Communications Officer for the multi-national exercise Ulchi Focus Lens in South Korea.

In October 2007, Katie reported to Navy Office of Information West in Los Angeles, Calif., where she served as the Deputy Director, Project Officer and Reserve Coordinator. She served as a direct liaison between the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) Public Affairs, Chief of Naval Information (CHINFO) and Hollywood to ensure an accurate and authentic portrayal of the U.S. Navy during filming of motion picture productions, television shows, documentaries and entertainment-related productions.

In March 2010, Katie earned her Accreditation in Public Relations by the Universal Accreditation Board. She earned her Master of Arts degree in Communication from San Diego State University in May 2010.

Katie reported to the Blue Angels in July 2010. Her decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various personal and unit awards.