Congressman Patronis Files Amendment to Keep the Blue Angels in Pensacola Forever
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jimmy Patronis filed an Amendment to H.R. 4016 – Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2026 (the Defense Appropriations Act), which prevents any funds in the Defense Appropriations Act from moving the United States Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, most commonly known as the Blue Angels, from their base in Pensacola, Florida. As currently drafted, the Defense Appropriations Act also provides funding to increase Active-Duty base pay by 3.8%. The Defense Appropriations Act is expected to be considered by the U.S. House of Representatives soon.
Congressman Jimmy Patronis said, “The Blue Angels have been a staple of Pensacola and the Emerald Coast for 70 years. To celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the Blue Angels calling this region home, I was proud to file an amendment to the Defense Appropriations Act that simply ensures that no funding will be used to transfer the Blue Angels from their historic base in Pensacola. While there is no known risk of them leaving the Pensacola area, I wanted to take the extra step to make sure the Blue Angels remain here forever. The Blue Angels are awesome, creating economic opportunities and fostering a sense of pride throughout the community. I look forward to joining all the families in Northwest Florida to enjoy the airshow this weekend and see America’s best in action.
“The Defense Appropriations Act funds our military’s essential functions, including military personnel, operations and maintenance, Research and Development, and more. I’m proud to represent one of the largest military districts in the country, and numerous military facilities. As written, this year, the Defense Appropriations Act provides funding to increase the base pay for our military servicemembers by 3.8%. These men and women defend our country 24/7/365, and I’m grateful to Congress for showing some appreciation for our heroes in uniform and the sacrifices they make for our country.”
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