America’s famed Blue Angels and Thunderbirds squadrons formed a joint venture to perform flyovers in a show of support for front line health care workers and those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in cities across the United States.
The name of the mission? Operation America Strong.
Last week, the formation-flying fighter pilots made spectacular appearances over New York City, Newark, Washington, Atlanta, Baltimore, and surrounding areas. Ground spectators viewed both squadrons flying in formation and could hear their incredible engine roars from miles away.
The U.S. Navy Blue Angels and Air Force Thunderbirds fly over Manhattan on April 28, 2020
The Blue Angels and Thunderbirds viewed from the ground in Washington on May 2, 2020
A 360-degree cockpit video clip during Operation America Strong above Atlanta on May 2, 2020
Both the president and first lady of the United States took to social media on Saturday to thank the pilots for their spectacular air show and add their voices in support of front line health care workers battling the virus.
“Proud to see the #AmericaStrong salute to our healthcare & frontline workers with a spectacular flyover today in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the @AFThunderbirds and @BlueAngels for this beautiful display of solidarity.”
Next up, the expert fighter pilot demonstration teams will head to the southern United States. On Wednesday, May 6, The Blue Angels are set to fly over Dallas, Fort Worth, and Houston, Texas, as well as New Orleans, Louisiana.
Texas cities Kingsville, Corpus Christi, and Austin also are set to receive the squadron above their skies, but dates have not yet been announced.