[MilCom] Blue Angels pick next flight leader

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Blue Angels pick next flight leader

Associated Press


PENSACOLA, Fla. — Navy leaders selected Gulf War combat veteran Cmdr. Kevin Mannix as
the Blue Angles next flight leader Tuesday.

The Lindenhurst, N.Y., native will lead the elite F-18 demonstration squadron during the
2007 and 2008 when he’ll begin piloting the Blue Angels “No. 1 Jet” and assume the
traditional call sign of “Boss.”

“This is right at the top, it has got to be one of the most enjoyable things I’ve had
the opportunity to try and do. It’s going to be a different challenge for the next two
years,” Mannix said.


Mannix is currently stationed in Atsugi, Japan, where he commands a squadron of F-18s
that deploy off the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk.

Rear Adm. Don Quinn, chief of air training for the Navy, said Mannix’s appoint is part
of an important Naval tradition.

“The Blue Angels are the face of the Navy, especially in all of the states that do not
have saltwater coastlines. The Angels are representing our 350,000 sailors and 100,000
marines to the rest of the nation,” he said.

Mannix was one of seven finalists for the two-year leadership rotation. The selection
process included lengthy interviews throughout the day Tuesday with a seven-member panel
and flying demonstrations.

Quinn said candidates had to impress the panel with their leadership experience,
communication skills and especially their flying.

“Their demos have to be great. It’s really hard to fly within 18 inches of each other
going 500 knots,” Quinn said