The Blue Angels cap up the air show

Montana – On Sunday, the Blue Angels wrapped off the Yellowstone International Air Show, which drew over 15,000 spectators from throughout the nation.

For many observers, including Bob Rademacher, it was their first time seeing the aircraft up close because the Blue Angels hadn’t flown over the Magic City in 32 years.

“We’ve never been to one,” Rademacher said on Sunday afternoon. “I’ve heard a lot about them and I’ve always wanted to see an air show. My brother went to one in Helena and said it would be worth it so that kind of pushed us into it.”

The 70-year-old Rademacher and his family traveled quickly from Roundup for the performance, and according to him, the larger audience was evident and further demonstrated how exceptional the experience was.

“This is all family I came with, so it’s kind of a family deal,” Rademacher said. “It’s a big deal. It’s kind of too bad that they had to do it during the fair, but I think it’s probably great for the city.”

Sue Eldridge, a resident of Florida, was another attendee who had never seen a display of that size in person.

“I’ve never actually been to a performance,” Eldridge said. “I’ve seen them taking off every day from our backyard, but to be able to come up here and see the whole performance is exciting.”

Eldridge, who spends her summers in Billings, recalled her initial concerns about the capacity of the city to host such a sizable event.

“I had no idea there was a facility like this where you would be able to do it,” Eldridge said. “It’s great to see all of these people here and the facility is gorgeous. It’s a perfect place to watch.”

Eldridge claimed that the event exceeded her expectations and that the city she has fallen in love with showed to be more than capable of handling the situation.

“There are so many things to do in Billings in the summertime, and this is kind of just the frosting on the cake,” Eldridge said. “It’s thrilling and kind of makes you feel patriotic.”

Eldridge claimed that the event exceeded her expectations and that the city she has fallen in love with showed to be more than capable of handling the situation.

“We’re enjoying it and having a great time,” Rademacher said. “I’d like to thank everyone involved. They put on a great show.”