From fighting fires to punching after burners, Tom Saunders, a member of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, has been given a chance to fly with the world-famous U.S. Navy Blue Angels. Saunders was selected as a part of their “Key Influencer” program that honors deserving locals to hitch a ride with the Angels at the upcoming Air Dot Show Ocean City.
On Tuesday, June 10 Saunders will feel the thrust of an F/A-18 Super Hornet as a passenger in the back seat. For 45 minutes Saunders will be up in the air as the pilot in the front of the cockpit takes him through rolls, loops, and all sorts of stomach-turning, adrenaline-churning maneuvers. “This is an incredible opportunity,” said Saunders after being selected to fly. “It’s really a dream come true. I’m sure I will remember this experience forever.”
In September 2021, a chance encounter at the Ocean City Firefighter Memorial inspired Saunders to join the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company (OCVFC). Sworn in as a firefighter and public safety diver, he’s earned two Resuscitation Awards, the Alfred E. Harmon Award for 417 advanced training hours, and his Public Safety Divers Badge. Last year, he served as the department’s fire chaplain, offering spiritual guidance during emergencies.
Saunders, a U.S. Army veteran, lists some of his proudest moments as rescuing an unconscious civilian from a fourth-floor balcony using a stokes basket and supporting a veteran in crisis, staying by his side until he was safely transported for care.
The Blue Angels will headline the 18th annual Ocean City show on June 14th and 15th.
