July 15, 2025

New Officers Join U.S. Navy Blue Angels Ahead of Air Show Season

News Summary

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels have announced the selection of seven new officers for the upcoming air show season, following a highly attended performance at the Pensacola Beach Air Show. This year’s event saw a turnout of approximately 250,000 spectators, showcasing impressive aerial displays. The new team members include various experienced pilots and officers who will undergo training before the next season, contributing to the Blue Angels’ legacy of excellence in aviation performance.

Pensacola, Florida –

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels have selected seven new officers to join their ranks for the 2026 air show season following a successful performance during the Pensacola Beach Air Show held from July 9-12, 2025. This year’s show attracted an estimated 250,000 spectators, marking one of the biggest turnouts for the event.

The newly appointed team comprises three F/A-18E/F Super Hornet pilots, one C-130J Super Hercules pilot, an Assistant Maintenance Officer, a Supply Officer, and a Public Affairs Officer. The selections were made public at the conclusion of the air show on July 12, with interviews for the positions conducted at Naval Air Station Pensacola earlier that week.

New Officers Announced

Lt. Ronny Hafeza, from Redondo Beach, CA, currently assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 122. He graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder, in 2015.
Lt. Cam Schneider, from Thousand Oaks, CA, also currently assigned to VFA 122. He completed his degree at the University of California, Santa Barbara, in 2014.
Lt. Chris Houben, from Geneva, IL, currently assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Madison, in 2017.
Capt. Olivia Bair, from Findlay, OH, currently with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 352. She graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2018.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jhulem Edejer, from Olongapo City, Philippines, currently assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 139, who joined the Navy in 2004.
Lt. Garrett Wiedle, from Fredericksburg, VA, currently with Electronic Attack Wing Pacific. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2019.
1st Lt. Danielle Cribb, from Beaufort, SC, currently stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, a 2021 graduate of The Citadel.

Upcoming Training and Events

The new officers will report to the squadron in September for a two-month turnover period. After the current season wraps up in November, they will embark on a five-month training program at Naval Air Station Pensacola and Naval Air Facility El Centro, California. The Blue Angels’ flight leader Commander Adam Bryan expressed confidence in the new team members and their anticipated contributions to the upcoming season.

Pensacola Beach Air Show Highlights

The Pensacola Beach Air Show was marked by impressive aerial displays, including advanced maneuvers like the diamond dirty loop and the opposing knife-edge pass. The event showcased not only the Blue Angels but also featured performances from various civilian aviation teams and support acts, beginning at 10:30 a.m., culminating in the Blue Angels’ display at 2 p.m. The air show faced brief delays due to storms but ultimately enjoyed favorable weather with a reduced chance of rain at the time of the Blue Angels’ performance.

Economic Impact and Attendance

Organizers estimated that last year’s air show generated a significant economic impact of approximately $31 million over three days, bolstered by a strong turnout of local residents and visitors. Traffic congestion was reported on roads leading into the beach area, as eager attendees arrived as early as 3 a.m. to secure their spots to witness the spectacle.

Looking ahead, officials are set to evaluate operations with air show participants in the coming weeks to identify areas for future improvement. The Blue Angels will return for the homecoming air show at NAS Pensacola in November, promising to further engage their growing fanbase and showcase their exceptional flying skills.