Navy Commits Blue Angels To Maryland's 200th Anniversary Of The War Of 1812
BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WJZ) -- Bringing more bang to the bicentennial. The Navy has now committed the Blue Angels to Maryland's 200th anniversary of the War of 1812.
Alex DeMetrick reports that expands the draw from events on the water to the skies over Baltimore.
Even when it's just one of the Blue Angels, excitement on the ground grows.
"Oh, I think it will be tremendous," said Gayle Adams, Martin State Airport.
"I want to see them come in," said Walt Coats, Martin State Airport.
The Navy fighter that dropped into Martin State Airport was on a promotional mission Thursday. Next summer the entire group will be coming.
"I can't tell you how pleased we are that the Navy's premiere flight demonstration team will be part of the Star-Spangled 200 Air Show," said Darrell Mobley, Deputy Secretary of the MTA.
The Navy has already committed ships to the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812, and the largest collection of tall ships since the nation's bicentennial in 1976 will be coming to Baltimore.
It's weaponry unimaginable in that fight 200 years ago, but it could have come in handy for Marylanders trying to stop a British invasion.
"I don't want to think about going back and changing history, but we're thankful we have them today in service to our nation," said Maj. General James Adkins, Maryland National Guard.
Between the Blue Angels and the tall ships, the bicentennial is expected to draw big crowds and their money.
"Well, we'll take their money, but for all the residents who want to look up in the sky and see the planes, that's a good thing," said Kevin Kamenetz, Baltimore County Executive.
And it's always something to see, although the pilots say it really just showcases training.
"They're neither stunts nor death-defying feats. They're highly refined tactical techniques. This will be the first time we're in the Baltimore area, especially with such a unique setting right on the water at Fort McHenry, we can't ask for a better venue. It's going to be spectacular," said Lieutenant Commander Todd Royles, Blue Angels.
The Blue Angels' aerial display over Fort McHenry is set for next June, and will coincide with an air show at Martin State Airport.
