Officers: United Officers, Their Roles and Responsibilities

Commander Thomas Frosch is a native of Clinton Township, Mich., and graduated from Fraser High School, Fraser, Mich., in 1988 where he lettered in football. He attended the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md., where he also lettered in football, graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering in 1992 and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.

Tom reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in March 1993. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, and completed advanced flight training in the T-45 Goshawk at NAS Kingsville, Texas. He received his wings of gold in March 1995.

Tom then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (VFA-106), the "Gladiators," at NAS Cecil Field, Fla., for initial training in the F/A-18 Hornet where he earned the Rear Adm. James Morin Award as the Replacement Pilot of the Year. In June 1996, Tom reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87), the "Golden Warriors," also at NAS Cecil Field, where he served as the Avionics/Armament Division Officer, Legal Officer, Administration Officer, Training Officer, and Landing Signals Officer (LSO). Tom completed a Mediterranean Sea and Persian Gulf deployment with the USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) and flew in support of Operation Southern Watch, as well as a deployment with the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) where he flew in support of Operation Allied Force in Kosovo and Operation Southern Watch in Iraq. While serving with the Golden Warriors, he was named the 1999 Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic Pilot of the Year.

In July 1999, Tom was selected to attend the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School at NAS Patuxent River, Md. He graduated in December 2000 and reported to Naval Strike Aircraft Test Squadron 23 (VX-23) also stationed at NAS Patuxent River. He served as a test pilot with the Ordnance Support Team, an LSO and Avionics/Armament Division Officer.

Tom returned to the fleet in January 2003 as a Department Head for Strike Fighter Squadron 192 (VFA-192), the "World Famous Golden Dragons," stationed at NAS Atsugi, Japan, where he served as Safety Officer, Operations Officer and Maintenance Officer. While assigned to VFA-192, Tom deployed with the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) and flew in support of Operations Southern Watch and Iraqi Freedom.

In August 2005, Tom attended the Naval War College in Newport, R.I., where he earned a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies, then reported to NATO at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) in Casteau, Belgium. During his tour, he deployed as an Individual Augmentee with the NATO International Security Assistance Force to Kabul, Afghanistan.

In May 2009, Tom reported as Executive Officer of Strike Fighter Squadron 146 (VFA-146), the "Blue Diamonds," stationed at NAS Lemoore, Calif. He commanded the "Blue Diamonds" through a work-up cycle and Western Pacific/Arabian Gulf deployment with the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was also selected for the 2010 Navy and Marine Corps Association Leadership Award.

Tom joined the Blue Angels as Commanding Officer in November 2012. He has more than 3,000 flight hours and 830 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, two Individual Air Medals with Combat "V" (Six Strike Flight), three Navy Commendation Medals, one with Combat "V," and numerous unit, campaign and service awards.

Lieutenant Commander John Hiltz is a native of Fort Mitchell, Ky., and graduated as salutatorian from Covington Catholic High School in 1998 where he lettered in basketball. He attended the University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Ind., where he played basketball, and graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in May 2002. He received his commission through the NROTC program.

John reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in July 2002. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Mentor at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, and transferred to NAS Meridian, Miss., for intermediate and advanced flight training in the T-2C Buckeye and the T-45C Goshawk. He received his wings of gold in August 2005.

John then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 122 (VFA-122), the "Flying Eagles," at NAS Lemoore, Calif., for initial training in the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. In August 2006, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 154 (VFA-154), the "Black Knights," at NAS Lemoore, where he served as the Aviation Electronics Technician Branch Officer, Mission Planning Officer, Public Affairs Officer, Morale Officer, Avionics/Armament Division Officer, Forward Air Controller (FAC-A), and Landing Signals Officer (LSO). While assigned to VFA-154, John completed two deployments aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and flew in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. He also participated in the multilateral international exercises Valiant Shield, Foal Eagle and Northern Edge.

In December 2009, John reported to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 101 (VMFAT-101), the "Sharpshooters," at MCAS Miramar, Calif., for transition to the F/A-18C/D Hornet. While serving as an instructor pilot with the "Sharpshooters," he served as Schedules Officer, Assistant Transition Phase Head, T-34C Mentor pilot, FAC-A, and LSO.

John joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. He has accumulated more than 2,000 flight hours and has 320 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include a Strike Flight Air Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Commander Nate Barton is a native of Hummelstown, Penn., and graduated from Lower Dauphin High School in 1998 where he lettered in basketball, track and field, and cross country. He attended the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y., where he played basketball, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Logistics in May 2002 and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.

Nate reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in October 2002. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to NAS Meridian, Miss., for intermediate and advanced flight training in the T-2C Buckeye and T-45C Goshawk. He earned his wings of gold in August 2005.

Nate then reported to Electronic Attack Squadron 129 (VAQ-129), the "Vikings," at NAS Whidbey Island, Wash., for initial training in the EA-6B Prowler. In August 2006, he reported to Electronic Attack Squadron 135 (VAQ-135), the "Black Ravens," at NAS Whidbey Island, Wash., where he served as Landing Signals Officer, Assistant Operations Officer, Aircraft Division Officer, and Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization Officer. While assigned to VAQ-135, Nate completed two deployments aboard USS Nimitz (CVN 68), and flew in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. He also participated in several international exercises with Indian, Japanese, Republic of Singapore and South Korean Air and Naval Forces. While assigned to VAQ-135, he was awarded the Debartolomeo Leadership award and the 2009 Landing Signals Officer of the year award for the Electronic Attack community.

In July 2009, Nate reported to Strike Fighter Attack Squadron 106 (VFA-106), the "Gladiators," at NAS Oceana, Va., for initial training in the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. In May 2010, he returned to NAS Whidbey Island as an Instructor Pilot in Electronic Attack Squadron 129 (VAQ-129) the "Vikings.” He was among the initial cadre of instructors who began the Electronic Attack Community transition from the EA-6B Prowler to the new EA-18G Growler. While at VAQ-129, he served as the Landing Signals Officer and Carrier Qualifications Phase Head and Schedules Officer. Here he was also recognized as the 2012 EA-18G Instructor Pilot of the Year.

Nate joined the Blue Angels in September 2012. He has accumulated more than 1600 flight hours, including 850 in the EA-6B Prowler and more than 600 in the F-18 Hornet airframe and 325 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and various personal and unit awards.

Captain Brandon Cordill is a native of Hemet, Calif., and graduated from Hemet High School in 1998, where he played AAA ice hockey for the San Diego Jr. Gulls. He attended Parks College of Saint Louis University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Science in 2002.

Brandon received his commission after completion of Officer Candidate School and reported to The Basic School (TBS), at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico, Va., in January 2004. He reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in July 2004. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to NAS Kingsville, Texas, for advanced flight training in the T-45A Goshawk. He received his wings of gold in June 2006.

Brandon then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (VFA-106), the "Gladiators," at NAS Oceana, Va., for initial training in the F/A-18 Hornet. In July 2007, he reported to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 (VMFA-122), the "Werewolves," at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, S.C., where he served as the Classified Material Control Officer, Squadron Mess Officer, Powerline Division Officer, Airframes Division Officer, Ground Safety Officer, Naval Air Training and Operation Procedures Standardization Officer, Flight Officer, and Assistant Operations Officer. While assigned to VMFA-122, Brandon deployed to Iraq and flew in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

He then reported to the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN), at NAS Fallon, Nev., and graduated in March 2010. Brandon again deployed with the "Werewolves" to Afghanistan in November 2010, where he flew in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The squadron earned the 2009 Robert M. Hanson Award as the Marine Corps Association's Fighter Attack Squadron of the Year.

Brandon joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. He has accumulated more than 1,800 flight hours. His decorations include eight Strike Flight Air Medals, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Commander David Tickle is a native of Birmingham, Ala., and graduated from Jefferson County International Baccalaureate School in 1998. He attended the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md., with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering in 2002, and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.

David reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in July 2002. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to NAS Meridian, Miss., for intermediate and advanced flight training in the T-2C Buckeye and T-45C Goshawk. He received his wings of gold in April 2005.

David then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (VFA-106), the "Gladiators," at NAS Oceana, Va., for initial training in the F/A-18C Hornet. In February 2006, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 136 (VFA-136), the "Knighthawks," also at NAS Oceana, where he served as the Squadron Mess Officer, Public Affairs Officer, Aircraft Division Officer, Naval Air Training and Operation Procedures Standardization (NATOPS) Officer, Assistant Schedules Officer, Air to Air Weapons and Tactics Officer, Quality Assurance Officer and Landing Signals Officer (LSO). While assigned to VFA-136, David completed deployments aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65), and flew in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Upon completion of the second deployment, David transitioned along with VFA-136 to the F/A-18E Super Hornet.

In February 2009, David reported to Training Squadron 9 (VT-9), the "Tigers," at NAS Meridian, Miss. While serving as an instructor pilot with the "Tigers," he served as the Instructor Under Training Standardization Officer and LSO.

David joined the Blue Angels in September 2010 and served as the Narrator and VIP pilot in 2011 and as the Opposing Solo pilot in 2012. He has accumulated more than 2,250 flight hours and 261 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include two Strike Flight Air Medals, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Mark Tedrow is a native of Charleroi, Penn., and graduated from Charleroi Area High School in 2000, where he lettered in football and basketball. He attended the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md., where he played football, graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in History in May 2004 and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.

Mark reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in June 2004. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Mentor at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, and transferred to NAS Kingsville, Texas, for advanced flight training in the T-45A Goshawk. He received his wings of gold in August 2006.

Mark then reported to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron 101 (VMFAT-101), the "Sharpshooters," at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar, Calif., for initial training in the F/A-18C Hornet. In November 2007, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 25 (VFA-25), the "Fist of the Fleet," stationed at NAS Lemoore, Calif., where he served as the Naval Air Training and Operation Procedures Standardization Officer (NATOPS), Public Affairs Officer, Aircraft Division Officer, Schedules Officer, Line Division Officer and Landing Signals Officer (LSO). While Assigned to VFA-25, Mark completed deployments in the Western Pacific and Middle East aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

In November 2010, Mark reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 122 (VFA-122), the "Flying Eagles" at NAS Lemoore, Calif. While serving as an instructor pilot with the "Flying Eagles," he served as the Ground Safety Officer, Aviation Safety Officer and LSO.

Mark joined the Blue Angels in September 2011 and served as the Narrator and VIP pilot in 2012. He has accumulated more than 1,600 flight hours and 212 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include the Strike Flight Air Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Ryan Chamberlain is a native of Bloomington, Ill., and graduated from Central Catholic High School in 2002. He attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Ill., and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Management in 2003. After flying for commercial airlines for two years, Ryan was commissioned an Ensign in the United States Navy in 2006 through the Officer Candidate School.

Ryan reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in July 2006. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, and transferred to NAS Kingsville, Texas, for advanced flight training in the T-45A Goshawk. He received his wings of gold in November 2008.

Ryan then reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 122 (VFA-122), the "Flying Eagles," stationed at NAS Lemoore, Calif., for initial training in the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet. In October 2009, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron 14 (VFA-14), the "Tophatters," at NAS Lemoore, Calif., where he served as the Public Affairs Officer, Aircraft Division Officer, Line Division Officer, Naval Air Training and Operation Procedures Standardization Officer, Assistant Operations Officer and Landing Signals Officer. While assigned to VFA-14, Ryan completed deployments in the Western Pacific and Middle East aboard USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.

Ryan joined the Blue Angels in September 2012. He has accumulated more than 1,200 flight hours and 300 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include two Air Medals (Strike Flight), two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Commander Michael Cheng is a native of San Francisco and graduated from Saint Ignatius College Preparatory in 1991. He attended the University of California, Irvine, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics in 1996. After working in management for four years, Michael was commissioned an Ensign in the United States Navy in 2001 through the Officer Candidate School.

Michael reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination and completed Naval Flight Officer Training in the T-34C Mentor, T-39G/N Saberliner and the T-2C Buckeye. He received his wings of gold in June 2002.

Michael then reported to Sea Control Squadron 41 (VS-41), the "Shamrocks," at NAS North Island, Calif., for initial training in the S-3B Viking. In May 2003, he reported to Sea Control Squadron 21 (VS-21), the "Redtails," stationed at Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi, Japan, where he served as the Squadron Legal Officer. While assigned to VS-21, Michael completed multiple Western Pacific deployments with the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). He also participated in the multilateral international exercise Foal Eagle.

In March 2005, Michael reported to Electronic Attack Squadron 129 (VAQ-129) the "Vikings," at NAS Whidbey Island, Wash., for transition training in the EA-6B Prowler as an Electronic Counter-Measures Officer (ECMO). In April 2006, he reported to Electronic Attack Squadron 140 (VAQ-140), the world famous "Patriots," where he served as the Ground Safety Officer, Personnel Officer, Avionics/Armament Division Officer, and Quality Assurance Officer. Michael completed three deployments with the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) flying combat missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and supported Operation Iraqi Freedom from Al Asad airfield in Iraq.

In March 2010, Michael reported to Naval Base Ventura County, Point Mugu, Calif., as the Deputy Operations Officer and Aviation Safety Officer. In June 2012, Michael graduated from Norwich University, Vt., with a Master of Business Administration degree in Finance.

Michael joined the Blue Angels in September 2012. He has accumulated more than 1,700 flight hours and 343 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include three Air Medals (Strike/Flight), a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Major John Hecker is a native of New Orleans and graduated from Randolph High School, Huntsville, Ala., in 1990, where he lettered in soccer, basketball and baseball. He attended Auburn University, Auburn, Ala., where he participated in competitive water-skiing and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications in 1997.

After working in the television field for five years, John was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps after completing Officer Candidates School, and reported to The Basic School (TBS) at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico, Va., in April 2002. He then reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in February 2003. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to Training Squadron 31 (VT-31) at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, for intermediate and advanced flight training where he flew the T-44 Pegasus. He received his wings of gold in April 2004.

John then reported to Marine Aerial Refueling Transport Training Squadron 253 (VMGRT-253) at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, N.C., for initial training in the KC-130 Hercules. In May 2005, he reported to Marine Aerial Refueling Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152), the "Sumos," at MCAS Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, where he served as the Adjutant, Flight Duty Officer and Future Plans Officer. During this tour, John also worked at the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing (1MAW) as an augment Aviation Transportation Coordination Officer (ATCO), coordinating humanitarian relief efforts for Operation Sea Angel II.

In June 2008, John reported to Training Squadron 6 (VT-6), the "Shooters," at NAS Whiting Field, Fla. While serving as an instructor pilot with the "Shooters," he served as the Admin Officer and Aviation Safety Officer. In January 2009, John was awarded the VT-6 Familiarization Flight Instructor of the Quarter. During his time in the fleet, John flew in support of numerous operations and exercises in Japan, Mongolia, South Korea, Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, Iwo Jima, Wake Island, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, American Samoa, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Australia.

John joined the Blue Angels in September of 2010. He has accumulated more than 2,100 flight hours. His decorations include two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Captain A.J. Harrell is a native of Frederick, Md., and graduated from New Life Christian School in 1998, where he lettered in basketball. He attended Anderson University, Anderson, Ind., where he participated in the athletic training program and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology in 2002.

A.J. received his commission through the Platoon Leaders Class-Combined (PLC-C) program and reported to The Basic School (TBS) at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico, Va. He then reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in November 2004. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to Training Squadron 31 (VT-31) at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, for intermediate and advanced flight training where he flew the T-44 Pegasus. He received his wings of gold in August 2006.

A.J. then reported to the 314th Airlift Wing's C-130 "Center for Excellence" at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark., for initial training in the C-130 Hercules. In April 2007, he reported to Marine Aerial Refueling Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152), the "Sumos," at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Futenma in Okinawa, Japan, where he served as the Adjutant, Flight Duty Officer and the Loadmaster Section Officer in Charge. He participated in numerous operations and exercises including Operation Sea Angel II, Operation Caring Response, Talon Vision, Cobra Gold, Air Warrior Karat and Northern Edge. In August 2010, A.J. was selected to attend Expeditionary Warfare School (EWS) in MCB Quantico, Va., and graduated in August 2011.

A.J. joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. He has accumulated more than 1,300 flight hours. His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various personal and unit awards.

Captain Mike Van Wyk is a native of Orland Park, Ill., and graduated from Carl Sandburg High School in 1999. He attended Trinity Christian College, Palos Heights, Ill., and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music and Theology in 2003.

Mike received his commission through the Platoon Leaders Class (PLC) program and reported to The Basic School (TBS) at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico, Va. He then reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for aviation indoctrination in July 2003. He completed primary flight training in the T-34C Turbo Mentor at NAS Whiting Field, Fla., and transferred to Training Squadron 31 (VT-31) at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas, for intermediate and advanced training where he flew the T-44 Pegasus. He received his wings of gold in August of 2005.

Mike then reported to Marine Aerial Refueling Transport Training Squadron 253 (VMGRT-253) at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, N.C., for initial training in the KC-130 Hercules. In July 2006, he reported to Marine Aerial Refueling Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152), the "Sumos," at MCAS Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, where he served as the Legal Officer, Future Operations Officer, and Assistant Maintenance Officer. During his tour, Mike deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).

Mike then reported to 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion at Camp Lejeune, N.C., in November 2010, where he served as a Forward Air Controller and deployed to the Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in support of OEF. During his time in the fleet, Mike has flown more than 300 combat hours. Additionally, Mike flew numerous operations and exercises in Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Burma, South Korea, Japan, Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, Wake Island, Iwo Jima, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Pago Pago and Australia.

Mike joined the Blue Angels in September 2012. He has accumulated more than 1,400 flight hours. His decorations include four Air Medals, a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, the Combat Action Ribbon, and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Commander Richard Mercado is a native of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, and graduated from West Torrance High School, Torrance, Calif., in 1990. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in April 1992 and completed Basic Training at Recruit Training Command (RTC) San Diego.

Richard completed Airman Apprentice Training at RTC San Diego and reported to USS Peleliu (LHA 5) stationed in San Diego, Calif., where he served as Aircraft Director and Landing Signalman Enlisted (LSE) in Air Department, V-1 and V-3 Division. During his tour aboard the Peleliu, he qualified as an Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist, completed numerous exercises and deployed to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operations Continue Hope and Distant Runner.

In October 1997, Richard received orders to Naval Air Technical Training Center (NATTC) Pensacola, Fla., as a Shipboard Aircraft Fire Fighting and Aviation Boatswain's Mate "A" School Instructor, where he earned his Master Training Specialist designation and was promoted to First Class Petty Officer. While at NATTC, he graduated from Excelsior College, Albany, N.Y., and was selected to attend Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Naval Aviation Schools Command (NASC) in Pensacola.

Richard was commissioned an Ensign in January 2002. After completing the Naval Aviation Maintenance Program Manager Course, Richard transferred to Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Eight (HC-8), the "Dragon Whales," at Naval Station (NS) Norfolk, Va., where he served as Aircraft Division Officer, Assistant Quality Assurance Officer and Material Control Officer.

In July 2005, Richard reported to Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron 11 (HS-11), the "Dragonslayers," at Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville, Fla., where he served as Material Control Officer, Assistant Maintenance Officer and Maintenance/Material Control Officer. While assigned to HS-11, Richard completed two deployments with the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. The squadron earned back-to-back Battle "E" awards from Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic and won the 2007 Sikorsky Golden Wrench Award.

In April 2009, Richard reported to Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE), NAS Jacksonville where he served as Avionics Division Officer and Maintenance/Material Control Officer in support of P-3C "Orion," C-130 "Hercules," and H-60 "Seahawk" aircraft. He earned recognition as the 2010 "Maintenance Officer of the Year" and qualified as Professional Aviation Maintenance Officer (PAMO). During his tour, he completed the Defense Acquisition University (DAU) Production, Quality and Manufacturing Level II certification.

Richard joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. His decorations include two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, five Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Commander Mark DeBuse is a native of Longmont, Colo., and graduated from Skyline High School in 1992. He attended the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md., graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry in 1996 and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.

Mark reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., for primary and intermediate flight training and in July 1997, he reported to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 120 (VAW-120) the "Grey Hawks" at NAS Norfolk, Va., for advanced training in the E-2C Hawkeye. He received his wings of gold in June 1998.

Mark then reported to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 112 (VAW-112) the "Golden Hawks" at NAS Point Mugu, Calif., where he served as the Squadron Legal Officer, Scheduling Officer and Quality Assurance Officer. While assigned to VAW-112, Mark completed deployments with USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) to the Western Pacific and the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch and NAS Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico, in support of counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

In May of 2001, Mark reported to Annapolis, Md., as Special Assistant and Speechwriter to the 56th Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy and later assumed duties as Flag Secretary to the Superintendent. In June 2003, he completed the Leadership Education and Development curriculum and earned a Master's of Science Degree in Leadership and Human Resource Development from the Naval Post Graduate School. He then served as the 20th Company Officer and as a leadership and ethics instructor at the Naval Academy.

In July of 2004, Mark reported to the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76), home-ported at NAS North Island, San Diego, as a Tactical Action Officer. In March 2005 he was selected for the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program and returned to school to attend Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington. He earned his Doctor of Medicine in 2009. He completed an internship in orthopaedic surgery at National Naval Medical Center Bethesda, Md. in June 2010 and then reported to the Naval Aerospace Medicine Institute in Pensacola, Fla., for training as a flight surgeon. Mark received his Naval Flight Surgeon wings in May 2011.

In June 2011, Mark reported to Commander, Carrier Air Wing Nine (CVW-9) at NAS North Island, Calif., as a dual-designated Naval Flight Officer and Flight Surgeon. While assigned to CVW-9, Mark deployed with the USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74), and provided medical care to more than 1,800 Sailors in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn.

Mark joined the Blue Angels in September 2012. He holds additional graduate degrees in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College and Ethics and the Professions from Georgetown University. He is a graduate of the United States Air Force's Advanced Flight Surgeon "Top Knife II" Course and has accumulated more then 1,000 flight hours and 200 carrier arrested landings. His decorations include an Air Medal (Strike/Flight), three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Holly Taylor is a native of Simsboro, La., and graduated from Simsboro High School in 1992. She enlisted in the U.S. Navy in June 1993 and completed Basic Training at Recruit Training Command (RTC) in Orlando, Fla.

Holly completed Storekeeper Class "A" School at Naval Technical Training Center (NTTC), Meridian, Miss., and reported to Naval Air Facility (NAF) Adak, Alaska. In December 1995, she transferred to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133, in Gulfport, Miss. After her tour with NMCB, she reported to NTTC Corry Station, Pensacola, Fla., in January 1998.

In May 2001, Holly was selected for conversion to the Legalman rating, and transferred to the Naval Justice School, Newport, R. I., where she graduated top of her class. In November 2001, she reported to NMCB 74, in Gulfport, Miss., as the Legal Officer where she deployed to Iraq in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, and qualified in Seabee Combat Warfare (SCW) and Fleet Marine Force Warfare (FMF). Her unit, Task Force Mike, was the first to enter Iraq upon the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In September 2005, she transferred to Region Legal Service Office (RLSO) Southwest, San Diego, Calif., where she was promoted to Chief Legalman. She earned her commission as a Limited Duty Officer in January 2007 and reported to Navy Expeditionary Guard Battalion, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, as the Detention Operation Center Officer-in-Charge and Assistant Officer-in-Charge of Detention Camps.

In February 2008, Holly reported to Marine Corps Security Force (MCSF) Battalion, Kings Bay, Ga., where she served as a Division Commander tasked with providing security for the Strategic Weapons Facility Atlantic's weapons storage and production area. In July 2009, she transferred to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 49 (HSL-49), in San Diego, as the Administrative Department Head and deployed on a one-year Individual Augmentation (IA) back to Navy Expeditionary Guard Battalion, Guantanamo Bay, where she served as the Administrative Department Head and managed five percent of the Navy's Individual Augmentees.

Holly earned a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Human Environmental Science from the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Ala., in August 2008, and she earned her Master of Science degree in Interactive Technology from the University of Alabama in August 2010.

Holly joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. Her decorations include the Joint Commendation Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, Joint Service Achievement Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Scott Adams is a native of Omaha, Neb., and graduated from Millard North High School in 2001. He attended Hastings College, Hastings, Neb., where he played soccer, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration in 2005. Scott then reported to Naval Air Station (NAS), Pensacola, Fla., for Officer Candidate School and was commissioned an Ensign in May 2007.

Scott reported for Navy Supply Corps School (NSCS), in Athens, Ga., in September 2007, where he completed the Basic Qualification Course. He then reported to Fleet Industrial Supply Center (FISC) Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, Greece, in April 2008, where he served as the Assistant Supply Officer and provided logistics, business and support services to the Navy, Coast Guard and Military Sealift Command, as well as other joint and allied forces.

In July 2009, Scott reported to USS Nimitz (CVN 68), at Naval Base San Diego, where he served as Hazardous Material Officer, Stock Control Assistant and Supply Quality Assurance Officer. He completed a Western Pacific/Arabian Gulf deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and qualified as Naval Aviation Supply Officer (NASO) and Surface Warfare Supply Corps Officer (SWSCO).

Scott joined the Blue Angels in September 2011. His decorations include two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and various personal and unit awards.

Lieutenant Katie Kelly is a native of Elgin, Ill., and graduated from Larkin High School in 2000, where she lettered in swimming and track. She attended the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md., where she was on the varsity swim team, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in English in 2004, and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy. Upon graduation, Katie participated in the Captain Marshall H. Cox Language Study Program in Paris, France.

Katie reported to the Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS) in Newport, R.I., where she served as an English instructor for the NAPS class of 2005.

In August 2005, she reported to the Defense Information School (DINFOS) in Fort Meade, Md., where she completed the Public Affairs Officer Qualification Course and was designated a Public Affairs Officer.

Katie then reported to the Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific (PACEN). She was assigned as the Assistant Public Affairs Officer to the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), where she completed the maiden deployment to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom and the surge deployment to the Western Pacific. She also participated in the multilateral international exercises Foal Eagle and Valiant Shield.

While at PACEN, Katie served as Media Coordinator for the Commission on the National Guard and Reserves, Media Officer for San Francisco Fleet Week, Production Coordinator for the 65th Anniversary Pearl Harbor Commemoration Ceremony and Strategic Communications Officer for the multi-national exercise Ulchi Focus Lens in South Korea.

In October 2007, Katie reported to Navy Office of Information West in Los Angeles, Calif., where she served as the Deputy Director, Project Officer and Reserve Coordinator. She served as a direct liaison between the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) Public Affairs, Chief of Naval Information (CHINFO) and Hollywood to ensure an accurate and authentic portrayal of the U.S. Navy during filming of motion picture productions, television shows, documentaries and entertainment-related productions.

In March 2010, Katie earned her Accreditation in Public Relations by the Universal Accreditation Board. She earned her Master of Arts degree in Communication from San Diego State University in May 2010.

Katie reported to the Blue Angels in July 2010. Her decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various personal and unit awards.