News Summary
1st Lt. Danielle Cribb from Beaufort, SC, has been selected as the first female Marine public affairs officer for the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. This significant appointment marks a pivotal moment in the team’s history, showcasing Cribb’s commitment to storytelling and honoring the legacy of the Blue Angels. Set to begin her role in the 2026 air show season, Cribb’s achievement inspires young girls from small towns to reach for their ambitions. The Blue Angels continue to perform for millions each year, emphasizing the importance of representation in the armed forces.
Beaufort, South Carolina – The U.S. Navy Blue Angels have announced the selection of seven new officers, including 1st Lt. Danielle Cribb from Beaufort, South Carolina, as the first female Marine public affairs officer for the prestigious flight demonstration team. This significant appointment highlights Cribb’s dedication to storytelling and her commitment to honoring the legacy of the Blue Angels while representing the U.S. Marines and Navy.
Currently assigned to Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, Cribb’s role will begin in the 2026 air show season. Joining her in this new chapter are fellow officers including Lt. Ronny Hafeza from Redondo Beach, CA; Lt. Chris Houben from Geneva, IL; Lt. Cam Schneider from Thousand Oaks, CA, all of whom are F/A-18E/F Super Hornet pilots. Additionally, Capt. Olivia Bair from Findlay, OH, will serve as a C-130 piloting officer, while Maintenance officer Jhulem Edejer hails from Olongapo City, Philippines, and Lt. Garrett Wiedle from Fredericksburg, VA, has been appointed as the supply officer.
Cribb’s journey to this landmark position began in Beaufort, where she was raised on Lady’s Island and attended local schools including Coosa Elementary, Lady’s Island Middle School, and Beaufort High School. She graduated from The Citadel, a military college in Charleston, in 2021. Her unique achievement as the first female Marine public affairs officer selected for the Blue Angels serves as a powerful source of inspiration for young girls, particularly those from small towns, indicating that ambitious goals can be reached regardless of their origins.
The Blue Angels, established in 1946, are renowned for their aerial displays and are primarily based at Forrest Sherman Field, Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida, during the air show season. Each year, the team performs for an estimated 11 million spectators, including a performance scheduled at MCAS Beaufort in April of 2026. This performance draws significant attention from both local residents and visitors alike, solidifying the Blue Angels’ enduring popularity.
The operational structure of the Blue Angels requires a robust support team, which consists of about 100 sailors and Marines. Approximately 45 team members travel to each show site to ensure high standards of performance and flight safety. In any given year, the Blue Angels select three tactical jet pilots, two support officers, and one C-130 pilot from across the military to join their ranks, typically serving two to three years in this prestigious role.
Previous officers, like Major Brandon Wilkins from Beaufort, who joined the Blue Angels in September 2024, exemplify the continued connection between the local community and this distinguished team. Through their achievements, they inspire future generations to aspire to careers in military aviation and public service.
The appointment of Cribb as the first female Marine public affairs officer in the Blue Angels’ storied history is a significant milestone not only for the team but also for representation within the U.S. Armed Forces. Her selection marks a step forward in inclusivity and indicates a growing recognition of the contributions and capabilities of female service members in traditionally male-dominated fields.
As the Blue Angels continue to captivate audiences with their exhilarating aerial performances, 1st Lt. Danielle Cribb’s new role promises to enrich the narrative surrounding the team, celebrating its storied history and the brave men and women who serve in the U.S. military.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Officers Join U.S. Navy Blue Angels Ahead of Air Show Season
Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Relieves Commanding Officer
Beaufort Air Show Brings Thrills and Business Boost
Additional Resources
- WSAV News
- Wikipedia: Blue Angels
- Your Island News
- Google Search: MCAS Beaufort Air Show
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: U.S. Navy Blue Angels
- Explore Beaufort SC
- Google News: Blue Angels 2026
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
