Fleet Week 2010 – The Blue Angels and More

It's that time of year again where more than a few San Franciscans complain about the afternoon noise of the Navy's Blue Angels flying over the city. We don't know whether they are worried that the U.S. Navy is attacking San Francisco, worried about the carbon footprint of these elite fighters, annoyed by the extra traffic, the associated noise, or just had some extra minutes on the cell phone without anyone to talk to.  We can only hope that their complaints fall on deaf ears and that the spectacle that is Fleet Week continues to flourish.  This is one of the most interesting traditions that comes annually to San Francisco.

While there are many activities associated with Fleet Week, all listed below, the main attraction for many is the airshow with the Blue Angels. 

 

It is a great time to get reacquainted with friends who have a rooftop in the city and convince them to have a BBQ, head over to the Golden Gate Bridge, or to Crissy Field to be amazed by the skill of these elite pilots and the sheer power of their equipment.  And of course, prayers for the fog to hold off are always welcome.

 

The Blue Angels will be practicing during the afternoons on Thursday and Friday, but the main show will be from 3-4 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Come into the city early to find a great place to relax and enjoy the show.  Here is the initial schedule of events, however complete updates will be given at the San Francisco Fleetweek 2010 website.

 

Fleet Week Events

 

Thursday, 7 October:

- Navy LHD ship  transits under Golden Gate Bridge.

- Ship ties up and transition to Senior Leader Seminar briefing by FEMA and NORTHCOM

- Media event, highlighting role of military in disaster relief.

Friday, 8 October:

- Public ship visits  

- Search and rescue training for Navy and Marine leaders put on by SF Fire Department

- Demonstrations of humanitarian assistance/disaster relief capabilities

- Athletic competition with sports clubs

- Full Airshow rehearsal from 1pm to 4pm with the Blue Angels scheduled for 3pm

- Band concert in the evening at Marines’ Memorial followed by an address by COM3rdFleet in the Marines’ Memorial Theatre.

Saturday, 9 October:

- Parade of Ships from Golden Gate Bridge to various piers

- Demonstrations of humanitarian assistance/disaster relief capabilities

- Military Band concert

- Fleet Week Airshow, 1pm to 4pm viewing from the waterfront

-  Reserved Seating and VIP tickets available  

- Blue Angel performance at 3pm

- Blue Angel autograph session and evening military band concert at Huntington Park.

- VIP reception for CERT NERT and Core volunteers

- FREE Navy In Space Exhibit, Fort Mason Bldg D, Room 100, 9am - 5pm  (Closed during the Blue Angels Show) 

Sunday, 10 October:

- Early morning photo shoot with Sailors, Marines and Coasties on Lombard Street,

- Combined Italian Heritage/Fleet Week Parade, involving marching Navy, Marine and Coast Guard Units with Colors, Military Bands

- Public ship visits

- Fleet Week Airshow, 1pm to 4pm viewing from the waterfront, Reserved Seating and VIP tickets available

- Blue Angel performance at 3pm

- Band Concert at Washington Square,

- Half-time band performance for SF 49er football game.

- FREE Navy In Space Exhibit, Fort Mason Bldg D, Room 100, 9am - 5pm (Closed during the Blue Angels Show)

Monday, 11 October:

- Ship visits continue   

- Band challenge event in Golden Gate Park,Band Shell with local high schools bands 

competing.

Tuesday, 12 October:  Ships depart