BLUE ANGELS

On May 31, 2019 I had the honor of flying with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels #7 Lieutenant Cary Rickoff. I was selected as the Media nomination through Tinker Air Force Base. I feel like I won the lottery being able to ride along with some of the best aviators in the world! The flight was about 50 minutes long and Lt Rickoff showed maneuvers from the Demo as well as demonstrated the capabilities of the F/A-18 Hornets. As you will see in the video, he did a great job of narrating and explaining every maneuver. During our flight, we pulled up to 7.1 Gs (25:00 and 37:00) and reached just under the speed of sound at .99 Mach! I had an absolute BLAST! I knew the ride would be physically taxing but I had no idea how hard these maneuvers are on the body. We were briefed on how to handle high G-force, by squeezing our butt, legs, and stomach muscles. I willed myself not to throw up but I definitely felt nauseous, especially after the barrel rolls! I passed out a couple of times. Lt Rickoff says one of the times may have been ALOC (almost loss of consciousness) where I could hear but could not see. I definitely passed out during the final maneuver, you can check it out at the end! I definitely savored the experience! I loved the first big climb - it was better than any roller coaster I've ever experienced! I loved the big 360 degree loop. I enjoyed skimming the clouds and experiencing zero gravity. It was crazy to fly inverted! I am so thankful for this opportunity and realize how lucky and blessed I am for this rare opportunity - so thank you to The Blues and Tinker Air Force Base! I also have a completely new perspective and gratitude for our military aviators. I have no idea how The Blue Angels do this regularly without a G Suit...let alone flying down to 18 inches apart. It truly is mind-blowing. My grandpa was a Naval Officer and I know he was smiling down from heaven. Thank you to all of the men and women who serve our country!