FOR decades, the US Navy’s Blue Angels flight demonstration team has brought its daring aerobatics to airshows around the world. The documentary feature, The Blue Angels, goes behind the scenes and brings the show to IMAX theatres and home to fans worldwide.

Chief Petty Officer Kevin Hill, a sailor from Jamaica, served with the Blue Angels squadron and is among those featured in the film. The movie was released in IMAX theatres on May 17, and started streaming on Amazon Prime on May 23.

Hill is a 2004 graduate of Cedric Titus High School in Clark’s Town, Jamaica.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Jamaica.

“I used to help my dad on the farm in Jamaica,” said Hill. “My aunt told me, if I keep helping my dad and keep working this hard, life will take me places I will never imagine. Trust me, life did and still is.”

Hill joined the Navy 16 years ago.

“I joined the Navy because when I came to the United States, I was sleeping on my mom’s couch,” said Hill. “I was 21 years old and knew I needed to find a job. My brother took me to the Navy’s recruiting office. Then it all started.”

The documentary follows aviators new to the Blue Angels through the rigorous training process required to perform with the team and keep up with the non-stop pace of the airshow season. It also highlights those winding down their time with the squadron before moving on to their next assignment. Additionally, the film delves into the tireless work of the maintainers who keep the aircraft show-ready and the behind-the-scenes staff who keep the show moving forward.

“During the film, I was the #1 crew chief and the boss’ crew chief,” said Hill. “I’m now a welder and also got promoted to the rank of chief petty officer.”

Time with the Blue Angels is temporary, and after their tour of duty, members of the squadron return to the fleet. Hill now serves as an aviation structural mechanic with Fleet Readiness Center Detachment Point Mugu, California.

“When I got back to the fleet, I noticed that I am more disciplined and try to change everyone to be like the Blues,” said Hill. “I got more organised, worked a lot harder, and started working out a lot more to stay in shape.”

Hill stands among the hundreds of naval aviators and maintainers who have served with the Blue Angels since 1946 and holds dear the legacy of precision, teamwork and professionalism upheld by the Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron.

“I came from a very humble upbringing and the military has given me so much in my life,” said Hill. “Serving in the Blues was a dream come true. I always wanted to join when I saw all four of my mentors on the team.”