U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, attended the Imperial County Airport Aviation Day, Jan. 16.

The community came together to combine its Market Days with the airport's "open house."

One of the highlights of the event were the Young Eagles flights for children ages 8 to 17. The Imperial Valley's children had the opportunity to see their home from 1,500 feet in the air. The goal of the flight is to inspire children to pursue their hopes and dreams, and encourage their interest in aviation, engineering, mechanics, and other aviation fields.

"It makes sense that we come out and get to talk about what we do and kind of calm some of their nerves for the kids who are having their first flight," Marine Capt. Katie Higgins said. "I still remember, as a flight student, my very first flight. I was so nervous. It was an awesome experience, obviously I fell in love at 'first flight,' you could say."

The team will perform its first public flight demonstration of 2016 at Naval Air Facility El Centro, March 12.

The mission of the Blue Angels is to showcase the pride and professionalism of the United States Navy and Marine Corps by inspiring a culture of excellence and service to country through flight demonstrations and community outreach. In 2016, the Blue Angels will celebrate their 70th anniversary.

Visit www.blueangels.navy.mil to view the 2016 air show season schedule, or for more information, contact the Blue Angels public affairs office at bapao@navy.mil.

For more news from Navy Blue Angels, visit www.navy.mil/.