NAS Pensacola, Fla. – (OBA) – A groundbreaking video podcast series about the Blue Angels flight demonstration team debuts this weekend. "Behind the Blues" will feature exclusive interviews with former team members. The four-part series includes never-before-seen footage from pivotal moments in the squadron's history.

The series launches this Saturday, May 10th on the Blue Angel Phantoms YouTube channel. New episodes will be released each Saturday throughout May. The timing coincides with Mental Health Awareness Month.  The producer’s aim is to support veterans facing mental health challenges. All proceeds will benefit the Blue Angels Foundation.

The Blue Angels Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting wounded veterans and their families, especially those suffering from post-traumatic stress (PTS) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). The foundation was formed by former Blue Angels team members and supporters who wanted to continue serving by helping those who have sacrificed for the country.

The project carries special significance through its family connection to Blue Angels history. The producer, Ryan Nothhaft of RyNo Media Productions, is the grandson of Roy "Butch" Voris, the first flight boss for the Blue Angels.

Besides being the founding flight leader of the Blue Angels, Roy "Butch" Voris was a highly decorated U.S. Navy aviator. A World War II fighter ace, Voris flew missions in the Pacific Theater and earned numerous commendations for his skill and bravery in combat. In 1946, he was handpicked to form and lead the Blue Angels, tasked with showcasing naval aviation excellence and boosting morale and recruitment in the post-war era. Under his leadership, the team performed its first air show in June 1946 in Jacksonville, Florida, laying the foundation for what would become a symbol of precision flying and American aviation pride. His vision and discipline helped establish the culture of excellence that still defines the Blue Angels today.

Nothhaft, the founder of Blue Angel Phantoms, launched the project in 2016 with the goal of documenting the history of the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels through first-hand accounts, short documentaries, and podcasts. Growing up around his grandfather, Ryan was captivated by the remarkable stories and legacy of the Blue Angels. Nothhaft told us, “I’ve spent years documenting the history of the Blue Angels, and this project is a chance to bring those stories to light in a way that also supports our veterans. I’ve always been inspired by the work of the Blue Angels Foundation and feel privileged to help amplify their mission.”

In November 2021, Ryan Nothhaft was named an honorary Blue Angel. This recognition was awarded in appreciation of his extensive work documenting the history of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels through his Blue Angel Phantoms project.

“Behind the Blues” viewers will experience unique perspectives on significant events. One episode includes reflections from 2001 team members about their experiences during 9/11. Another features rare footage of the only recorded Blue Angels carrier landing on the USS Harry S. Truman.

Mary Lou Hall shares her emotional journey in a featured interview. As the wife of CAPT Harley Hall, the last Naval Aviator shot down during the Vietnam War, she discusses her decades-long search for answers about her husband's fate.

The series also explores the relationship between America's premier flight demonstration teams. Former pilots compare the cultures and operations of the Blue Angels and their Air Force counterparts, the Thunderbirds.

The interview-style conversation format distinguishes this project from traditional documentaries. Each episode features in-depth discussions with team members alongside historical footage and personal commentary.

The video podcasts support transitioning military personnel while preserving Blue Angels history. Viewers can watch the series at www.youtube.com/c/blueangelphantoms beginning tomorrow Saturday, May 10th.

Click here if you’d like to contribute to the Blue Angels Foundation and help our veterans who are in need.