Breaking Barriers: Lieutenant Commander Amanda Lee's Triumph in the Skies

By Meredith Folger Amon

Published May 29, 2024

Six members of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels flight demonstration team, including Amanda Lee, stand in a line on an airstrip, all in blue flight suits and sunglasses, saluting. Behind them are the tail sections of their blue and yellow jets. Another person is seen in the background.

Meet Lieutenant Commander Amanda Lee, a true trailblazer in the world of aviation. She is a true inspiration and a living example of determination and skill.

Joining the military in 2007 from Mounds View, Minnesota, Lt. Lee had dreams of a medical career. But destiny had a different path in store for her when she was offered a commission in aviation. Driven by her passion and determination, she took on the challenge of becoming a pilot and soared to success. After hard work and perseverance, Lt. Lee achieved her dream and now proudly serves in fighter aviation, following her passion and making a mark in the world of the Blue Angels.

Lieutenant Lee vividly recalls her first time flying the F-18. As she ignited the afterburner, she couldn't contain her excitement and thus let out a laugh as she was pushed back into her seat. It was an exhilarating feeling like no other.

But it was the T6 that truly tested her skills. As she prepared for her first aerobatic maneuver, a loop, she turned to her instructor for guidance. With a simple "you just do it" response, Lee and her instructor confidently tackled the maneuver together. From then on, she honed her skills through practice, perfecting her technique with each try.

Three U.S. Navy Blue Angels fighter jets in close formation against a cloudy sky. Jets have blue and yellow markings with "U.S. NAVY" and their respective numbers, 2, 3, and 4, on the tails and fuselages. Smoke trails are visible from the aircraft as they perform maneuvers honoring Amanda Lee.

Four blue and yellow fighter jets, flown by elite pilots like Amanda Lee, soar in close formation against a clear sky. The jets are tilted at a slight angle, showcasing their sleek design and synchronized positioning.

Being on the team is a similar experience. Lee still feels a rush of excitement as she asks questions such as, "Are we really going to do this loop in formation?" And the resounding answer is always “Yes”. They just do it, and then they do it again and again, constantly striving for improvement. With each flight, Lee and the team continue to push themselves to reach new heights, inspiring others to do the same.

For Amanda Lee, her previous role as the left-wing pilot was no easy feat. Despite her admitted bias, flying on the left wing is widely regarded as the toughest position in the Delta.

This year, Lee has stepped into the coveted role of the No.4 slot pilot. With the unique ability to scan all directions, the No.4 pilot plays a vital role in the team's success. This is arguably the best seat and view in the house- a prime position for ensuring safety, providing backup, and overseeing training.

One of the most rewarding aspects of Lee's job is interacting with the public at air shows. She loves meeting the children who come up to the crowd line, and often hears from their parents that she is their child's favorite member of the team. While most of these children may not aspire to become pilots, Lee is proud to be a role model for them and inspire them to aim higher in whatever they choose to do.

Three U.S. Navy Blue Angels jets, painted in blue and yellow, line up on an airstrip ready for takeoff with smoke trailing behind them. In a grassy area surrounded by trees, the precision of these jets reflects the dedication of flyers like Amanda Lee.

A smiling woman in a blue flight suit and cap, possibly Amanda Lee, interacts with a person in a yellow shirt. The setting appears to be an indoor event with a high ceiling and large windows. Other people are in the background, some also in blue flight suits and others taking photos.

For Lee, the ripple effect of her role goes beyond just representing the Navy and Naval Aviation. She hopes to inspire others to better themselves and their communities, and ultimately make a positive impact on our country. As Lee states, “If you really apply yourself and give it 110%, you can really get to wherever you want to go. Giving it everything can really open doors.”

When Lee gives something her all, opportunities open doors. Lee believes that pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone is not just for women in the Navy, but for everyone. She encourages others to take on challenges.

As of September 2022, Lee proudly joined the prestigious Blue Angels team. With over 1,800 flight hours and 225 carrier-arrested landings, she has proven herself as a skilled and dedicated pilot. Lee’s impressive resume includes four Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and numerous personal and unit awards.

Lt. Lee's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and chasing your dreams. As we look to the future, let us remember to never let anything hold us back and to always strive for excellence. The sky is not the limit; it's just the beginning.

Don't forget to catch Lt. Lee and the Blue Angels team at their performances in Pensacola this July.

Blue Angels Air Show, Pensacola Beach
Location: Gulfside Pavilion. 20 Casino Beach Blvd Pensacola Beach, Florida 32561
(850) 932-2257

BLUE ANGELS WEEK CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Kicking off the air show week is “Breakfast with the Blues,” on Wednesday, July 10, at 8:00 a.m. when the Blue Angels arrive and circle overhead to mark the show’s coordinates and center points along Pensacola Beach.

On Thursday, July 11, at 2 p.m., the Blue Angels hold a full practice show over Pensacola Beach.

Friday, July 12, is the Pensacola Beach Air Show dress rehearsal where flight demonstrations and civilian aerobatic performances begin at approximately noon, with the Blue Angels overhead at 2 p.m.

Saturday, July 13, marks the official Pensacola Beach Air Show and follows exactly Friday’s dress rehearsal schedule.