In a recent opinion piece for the Seattle Times, former Air Force surgeon and physician Breck Lebegue has made a bold call for the end of the Blue Angels’ airshows.
Lebegue, who once served as a USAF surgeon, argues that the noise and pollution from the famous Blue Angels air display team are too extreme to ignore.
He points out that the roar of the jets can reach up to 110 decibels, a level high enough to potentially cause permanent hearing damage.
In addition, the F/A-18 jets used by the Blue Angels emit about 670 metric tons of carbon monoxide during just two days of performances.
This amount of pollution is equivalent to the emissions from 30 cars each driving 150,000 miles.
The Blue Angels are scheduled to appear at Seattle’s Seafair event this weekend, where they are expected to entertain thousands of spectators.
Despite their popularity and the joy they bring to millions, Lebegue is less than impressed. He argues that the health risks and environmental impact outweigh the spectacle of the airshows.
Lebegue has called on Seattle residents to use decibel-measuring apps to record the noise levels during the performances.
He warns that prolonged exposure to sounds over 85 decibels can lead to permanent hearing loss.
Health and Environmental Concerns
Lebegue also highlights the potential health risks for the 74,000 residents living near Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, where jets similar to the Blue Angels are based.
He cites a scientific study indicating that high noise levels can lead to significant annoyance, disrupted sleep, and even hinder children’s learning in affected schools.
Moreover, he argues that hosting the Blue Angels contradicts Seattle’s efforts to become more eco-friendly.
Local officials aim to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 30% from 2008 levels by 2030.
A Plea for a Greener Future
Lebegue advocates for a shift towards quieter, more environmentally friendly alternatives.
He suggests that it’s time to say goodbye to the Blue Angels, thanking them for their past contributions while embracing a future with cleaner air and healthier family activities.
In his view, reimagining Seafair without the Blue Angels could better align with Seattle’s progressive values and environmental goals.
The Blue Angels, formally known as the US Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, were established in 1946 to promote the Navy and entertain the American public.
Based in Pensacola, Florida, the Blue Angels perform at least 60 shows across the US each year, often in picturesque locations.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the Blue Angels conducted a nationwide tour to honor essential workers.
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