Ocean City firefighter Tom Saunders selected as key influencer for U.S Navy Blue Angels

WALLOPS ISLAND, Va. – An Ocean City firefighter was selected as a key influencer for the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. Former U.S. Army veteran Tom Saunders said he was honored by the opportunity.

“How blessed I am to have this opportunity to live where I am and do what I do, and to have the men and women of this military with skill sets like this protect us.”

Saunders experienced the rolls, loops and maneuvers during a 45-minute flight. Major Scott Laux piloted the F/A-18 Blue Hornet aircraft.

He told WMDT he lives for these moments.

“It’s an absolute privilege. It’s hard to get a civilian in the back of these, and I get the honor to be the person to provide them with the experience, which is really special,” Laux said.

According to Saunders, the flight felt like being on a extreme roller coaster.

“I forget the flight where they did the max at the end – the sneak-to-vertical pull. That one snuck up on me and knocked me out.”

Laux is preparing for the Ocean City Air Show and said he is excited to put on a great show for the community.

“The mission of the Blue Angels is to show the teamwork and professionalism between the Navy and Marine Corps through flight demonstration and community outreach, while inspiring cultural excellence and service to the country.”

For more information on the OC Air Show, visit here.