A fighter jet blazed the skies over Rome, Georgia once again on Monday as members of the US Navy’s Blue Angels flew into town for a winter site visit ahead of their appearance in the ’21 Wings Over North Georgia air show, set for October 30th and 31st at the Russell Regional Airport.
The F/A-18 ‘Legacy’ Hornet was flown by Blue Angel #7, Lt. Julius Bratton, narrator and advance pilot. He was joined in the jet by #8, events coordinator Lt. Katlin Forster.
Due to COVID-19 concerns, the Blue Angels were unable to perform at any air shows during the 2020 season. The team has spent a lot of time this year in practice sessions for next season, according to Lt. Bratton, who adds that they did take some time to honor healthcare workers and first responders via their America Strong flyovers back in the Spring.
When the Blue Angels return to Rome in 2021, some of them will be flying in the bigger, louder Super Hornet, asserts Lt. Bratton. A C-130J affectionately known as “Fat Albert” will also be here.
There are some subtle differences between what is referred to as the ‘Legacy’ Hornet and the Super Hornet; for instance, the latter features larger wings (by about 50 percent) and a more powerful engine, indicates Lt. Bratton.
The Blue Angels conducted their last flight in their ‘Legacy’ Hornets over the skies of Pensacola, Florida last week.
Get updates on the 2021 Wings Over North Georgia air show on the website at www.wingsovernorthgeorgia.com or via social media to include Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.