Navy Lt. Mark Tedrow has no problem reconciling an air show with a commemoration of the War of 1812, an era that precedes flight by almost a century.
The Blue Angels pilot said he looks forward to flying over the Inner Harbor, Middle River and Fort McHenry — birthplace of the national anthem — during a bicentennial celebration in June.
"It will be outstanding to perform multiple maneuvers over Fort McHenry," he said. "It will show just how far we have come."
Tedrow and his co-pilot flew into Martin State Airport in Middle River on Thursday to give a small preview of what the Navy's renowned flight team will do for the bicentennial maritime and air festival that kicks off June 13.
"Stake out your places on the waterfront so you don't miss a thing," said Lt. Cmdr. Todd Royles, co-pilot of the sleek blue-and-gold jet. "There will be six Blue Angels here, showing off highly refined tactical techniques. We can't ask for a better venue."
The 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 will bring tall ships to the Baltimore harbor, and vintage as well as 21st-century aircraft to Baltimore County's skies.
The city will highlight its role in the war with a maritime festival at the Inner Harbor. Baltimore County, where Maryland's militia battled the British at North Point, will begin its celebration with an air show. The Blue Angels provided a dramatic backdrop as officials announced the on-the-ground exhibit of vintage and modern planes that will fill the airport's runways.
The city's 2012 Star-Spangled Sailabration, from June 13 through 19, and the county's air show, from June 15 to 17, will give an anticipated 1 million tourists numerous opportunities to delve into the state's naval and air history. The Blue Angels will return for the air festival, and at least 10 tall ships, including the Coast Guard training ship Eagle, will sail up the Chesapeake Bay to berths at the Inner Harbor in June. Several community events, still in the planning stages, will accompany both the air and sea displays.
mary.gail.hare@baltsun.com