THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, September 28, 1995 TAG: 9509280369
SECTION: LOCAL PAGE: B5 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY STEVE STONE, STAFF WRITER
LENGTH: Short : 36 lines
The Navy's Blue Angels will not perform this weekend in Louisiana, and the rest of this year's schedule remains uncertain, the Navy said Wednesday.
The Blue Angels last performed Saturday at Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach. A scheduled Sunday show was scrubbed when the demonstration squadron's commander said he was concerned about his skills.
The Blue Angels returned to their base in Pensacola, Fla., for intensive training.
In a news release issued late Wednesday afternoon, however, the Navy said concerns now center on the proficiency of the entire squadron. And the group's leader, Cmdr. Donnie Cochran, decided that more practice is needed.
``Cmdr. Cochran and the team have constructed a realistic and comprehensive training plan to address and correct their concerns about the squadron's overall proficiency,'' the Navy said. ``These training flights began today and won't be completed in time for the Blue Angels to make their commitment in Alexandria, La.''
Since the cancellation of Sunday's show at Virginia Beach, the Navy has said safety is the paramount concern, especially given the nature of a Blue Angels performance, which requires split-second timing in its tight formations.
``It is unknown at this time whether or not the need for further practice flights will impact the Blue Angels' ability to perform at future show sites,'' the Navy said. by CNB