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Blue Angels arrive to LRAFB


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Reported by: Dustin Barnes
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Updated: 9/06/2012 5:40 pm Published: 9/06/2012 5:20 pm
LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE -- You can't help but look at the Blue Angels' arrival in awe.  They leave a trail in the sky and an amazing impression.

They're in central Arkansas for this weekend's air show to inspire and intrigue.

"The average taxpayer doesn't get a chance to get to an aircraft carrier, ride in a tank, and they don't get a chance to see firsthand," Capt. Greg McWherter said.

McWheter is lead commander of the demonstration squadron. While he's one of six pilots twisting and turning in the sky -- believe it or not -- these are basic techniques all navy and marine pilots learn.

"They're roles, they're loops, formation flying, high-speed passes, and low-speed passes. We will refine and tweak them to give them a little more entertainment value," McWherter said.

Among the pilot and crew from all across the country is a little taste of Arkansas. 

"I grew up on a farm and trying to explain what I do in the Navy is kind of hard," PO1 Jeremy Green, a Hope native, said.

Green is one of the mechanics, and he gives the signal that the planes are ready for takeoff.

His family and friends can now see what he's been doing all this time.

"They can come out and say 'There's a jet. Now I see what he's talking about,'" said Green.

What a sight for all to see.

"If we can drop into their backyards during an air show firsthand and show them pride and professionalism. That's a great way to pay back the taxpayer," McWherter said.

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The views expressed here do not necessarily represent those of FOX16 - Breaking News and Weather to Plan Your Day for Little Rock and Central Arkansas

wpsark - 9/7/2012 10:55 AM
2 Votes
Excellent, it's good to remind the citizens how AWESOME our military is..The greatest in the world.

Butch54 - 9/6/2012 7:15 PM
2 Votes
Easy. I spent years at Ft. Hood. Went to CTC while there. Watched the Blue Angles. Raced on their NHRA drag strip. Remember a fast tank they used to call "HELL ON WHEELS". I wore one of those triangles that said just that. Fly them planes boys.

ArkansasYankee - 9/6/2012 5:54 PM
2 Votes
Driving a tank is indeed a blast! Firing that 105 was fun too ( yes, I was in the "old" army ). You can have flying though; don't care for being in the sky. But I do love watching the Blue Angels and the Thunderbirds. And everyone that knows me on here knows how I feel about our service men and women. God Bless them all. Except for the Major at Ft. Hood; may he rot in Hell.
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