Pete Hegseth defends low-altitude Blue Angels flyover after jet buzzed Pensacola Beach crowds
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is championing low-altitude military flyovers following a dramatic maneuver by the Navy’s Blue Angels demonstration squadron over Pensacola Beach. On Wednesday, a jet flew so close to the crowded shoreline that it knocked over tents and chairs, sending sand flying and prompting children to cover their ears. While the Navy initially launched a thorough safety review of the maneuver, the administration announced its support for the flight. Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao stated there were "no problem" with the flight and no reprimands would be issued. Hegseth posted on social media that the flyovers will continue until morale improves, while Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell urged the public to "Carry on Patriots." The maneuver drew mixed reactions; while some aviation safety professionals criticized the "reckless behavior," many beachgoers described the experience as a "blessing" and a "once-in-a-lifetime" event. Despite the scrutiny, the Blue Angels are scheduled to continue their practice sessions ahead of the upcoming air show.