Courtesy of the U.S. Navy Office of Community Outreach
Courtesy of the U.S. Navy Office of Community Outreach-Alvin Plexico
MILLINGTON, Tenn. – During the 2023 Super Bowl National Anthem performance three Navy tactical squadrons will conduct a unified flyover. Capt. William Frank, a graduate of Purdue University who also has family ties to Monticello, Indiana, is one of those supporting the flyover as a member of Strike Fighter Squadron 122.
To commemorate 50 years of Women Flying in the U.S. Navy, the service will conduct a flyover of State Farm Stadium during the national anthem. The formation will be comprised of an F-35C Lightning II from the “Argonauts” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, two F/A-18F Super Hornets from the “Flying Eagles” of VFA-122, and an EA-18G Growler from the “Vikings” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129. These aircraft represent the strike and electronic attack capability of the Carrier Air Wing of the Future, providing advanced technology and enhanced flexibility to defend freedom at home and abroad.
Frank joined the Navy 21 years ago.
“My father served in the Navy as a Medical Service Corps Officer,” said Frank. “My grandfather served in the Navy during World War II and my great grandfather served in the Army during WW I. My family has a long lineage of military service and there was never any question for me that I would serve. From an early age, my dream was always to fly in the Navy so the path seemed clear.”
According to Navy officials, naval aviation is the best in the world because of its ability to harness the entire ocean as a runway.
“Flying the F/A-18 Super Hornet from the aircraft carrier is by far the coolest part of my job,” said Frank. “Every day I have to remind myself how lucky I am to still be living out my childhood dream. As thrilling, demanding, and rewarding as flying is, the best part of my job will always be the amazing people that I am fortunate to work with.”
As Frank continues to train and perform missions, there’s a great deal of pride serving as a United States naval aviator.
“I don’t consider myself as someone who serves in the Navy,” said Frank. “The Navy is not my job, it’s my passion. Not many people can truly say that they get to live out their dream on a daily basis. I devote myself to the Navy, because the Navy has given so much to me.”