FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. - A South Florida science teacher has taken to the skies after being honored with a prestigious award from the Broward County Public Schools. Richard Lamarre, who teaches at Miramar High, was named the 2025 Teacher of the Year, and to celebrate this remarkable achievement, he received an exhilarating ride with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.
On April 30, 2025, the Blue Angels, part of the Navy’s elite flight demonstration squadron, treated Lamarre to a breathtaking 45-minute flight in an FA-18 Super Hornet over Fort Lauderdale. This experience was part of their Key Influencer program, aimed at recognizing individuals who make significant contributions to their communities.
“Richard is nominated from the community here, you know. You mention teacher of the year awards, stuff like that, somebody who’s very clearly making a difference,” said U.S. Navy Major Scott Laux. “And that’s what we want. We want to reward people who are making a difference in their communities.”
As he prepared for the flight, Lamarre expressed his excitement, stating, “This is so cool.” Once airborne, he experienced the thrill of high-speed maneuvers and sharp turns that the Super Hornet is known for. “It was an amazing ride, didn’t pass out once. Crazy turns and loops and forces all around you, but with the proper techniques, you’re able to just enjoy the ride,” he reflected afterward.
Lamarre, who has dedicated the last decade to teaching science, is inspired by the belief that education is a powerful tool for change. He aims to ignite his students’ passion for science through engaging lessons and personal experiences. Following his flight, he shared a message with his students: “Anything is possible. No matter how difficult life gets, there’s beauty around you. Just lock in and just enjoy the ride. Try to find something to focus your attention to have more passion in life.”
The Blue Angels are set to headline the upcoming 2025 Air Dot Show, taking place over Fort Lauderdale Beach this weekend, May 3 and 4. This event will feature eight headlining acts, including the Blue Angels, who are returning to Fort Lauderdale after their last appearance in 2023.
Lieutenant Commander Natalia Luchetti, part of the Blue Angels team, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are looking forward to inspiring millions of people that may come out.” Commander Jack Keilty echoed her sentiments, noting the warm reception the squadron has received in South Florida. “Our reception here has been absolutely fantastic and warm and kind,” he remarked. “We are so fired up to send this weekend here.”
During the Air Dot Show, spectators can expect to see a variety of thrilling aerial maneuvers performed by the Blue Angels, including the iconic diamond formation, loops, and rolls, all while flying at speeds exceeding 400 miles per hour and just feet apart from each other. The show will last approximately 40 minutes and will include the Blue Angels’ signature aircraft, the Super Hornet, as well as the support aircraft known as Fat Albert.
The Blue Angels have a busy schedule ahead in May, performing at five air shows and a special flyover. Following the Air Dot Show in Fort Lauderdale, they will headline the NAS Corpus Christi Air Show in Texas on May 10, the Golden Isles Airshow in Georgia on May 17-18, and the Air Dot Show Central PA in Pennsylvania on May 24-25. Additionally, they will perform a flyover during the U.S. Naval Academy's graduation ceremony on May 23.
The excitement surrounding the Air Dot Show is palpable, with spectators eager to witness the skill and precision of the Blue Angels. “I’ve been in the Navy for 24 years and every time they take flight I feel like I’m five years old,” Luchetti said, highlighting the personal connection and pride that comes with being part of the team.
For those planning to attend the Air Dot Show, it promises to be an all-day event filled with entertainment, including performances from various military and civilian flight teams. Gates will open at 8:30 a.m., and the show will wrap up approximately eight hours later, culminating in the Blue Angels’ performance.
The Blue Angels, who transitioned to flying the Super Hornet F/A-18 E/F in 2021, are known for their impressive aerial displays. These new jets are 25% larger than their predecessors, capable of flying 40% further, and can remain on station 80% longer while carrying more weapons.
As the countdown to the Air Dot Show continues, both Lamarre and the Blue Angels are gearing up for an unforgettable weekend, showcasing the thrill of flight and the importance of education in inspiring future generations.
