MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – The U.S. Army’s Golden Knights are poised to hit the skies of South Florida as part of the Hyundai Air & Sea Show in Miami Beach this Memorial Day weekend.
Brandon Guevara, a Golden Knights member, shared his excitement for the event with Local 10 News.
“It’s exhilarating. You jump out, you have the wind all around you… you’re floating down to earth,” he said.
Local 10 News caught up with the team of 12 for an exclusive interview as they prepared to depart from Opa-locka Airport Friday afternoon.
As the Golden Knights parachute team geared up, they practiced their maneuvers, preparing for their performances in front of many this weekend.
Before heading above Miami Beach, the Golden Knights were seen practicing their routines.
“On target. On target,” echoed through the air as they perfected their moves.
Golden Knights member Justin Drake hinted to attendees that they “can expect a new air show from the Golden Knights that we haven’t demonstrated before.”
Flying at 7,000 feet, the first part of their practice performance commenced, followed by a climb to nearly 13,000 feet for the next segment.
After executing their stunts flawlessly, the pilot skillfully maneuvered the plane inches above the beach for a thrilling flyby.
Meanwhile, a color guard ceremony took place back at the airport, with the Air Force Honor Guard welcoming family members of nearly 200 individuals enlisting in the military.
“Memorial Day weekend is more than a BBQ. The whole idea is to say thanks to the people,” said Executive Producer of the Hyundai Air & Sea Show Mickey Markoff.
The Air & Sea Show kicks off Saturday from noon to 6 p.m., and will be followed by a music event starting at 7 p.m.
The Golden Knights will be performing, and the event is free.
For more parking and event information, click here.