Fair Winds and Following Seas, Mark Dunleavy #3, 4, 2 – Blue Angels ’97–’99

Fair Winds and Following Seas, Mark Dunleavy #3, 4, 2 – Blue Angels ’97–’99

With profound sorrow and enduring pride, we remember and honor the life and service of Mark Dunleavy, Blue Angels pilot #3, #4, and #2 from 1997 to 1999. The world of naval aviation, and indeed the entire Blue Angels family, has lost one of its very best.

Mark was not just a pilot. He was a leader, a mentor, a force of nature in the air, and a warm, uplifting presence on the ground. Trained and molded by legends Scooter Moyer and Kato Cooke, Mark carried forward their legacy with unparalleled grace and skill. Those who had the honor to fly with him knew immediately: he was born for this. With sharp instincts, precision flying, and a commanding presence, he made everything look effortless—even the impossible.

Over his distinguished three-year tenure on the team, Mark flew three of the four Diamond positions, an extraordinary achievement that speaks volumes about both his talent and the confidence his teammates placed in him. Whether he was flying in the #3 (Right Wing), #4 (Slot), or #2 (Left Wing) positions, Mark brought razor-sharp focus and unbreakable trust to every formation. He would have flown #1—the Lead—if only he’d been given the chance. Many of us would’ve followed him without hesitation.

As Slot Pilot and Training Officer during the 1998 Winter Training, Mark left an indelible mark on the Team’s evolution. Together, we developed the Diamond Half-Cuban 8 Takeoff, a complex maneuver that perfectly showcased the elegance and discipline of our flying. And just as memorably, we brought back the Diamond Landing to our demonstration—something that hadn’t been done in years. That return to tradition and spectacle was driven by Mark’s vision and dedication to excellence.

But Mark’s impact wasn’t confined to the sky. He was a crowd favorite—not just because of his thrilling flight displays, but because of his genuine warmth and connection to people. At schools, hospitals, community events, and airshows, Mark embodied the spirit of the Blue Angels: humility, service, and inspiration. He never tired of shaking hands, telling stories, answering questions, and reminding every child who looked up at the sky that they could one day be in his flight suit.

He believed in the power of naval aviation to transform lives—not only his own, but the countless young people he encouraged to dream bigger, work harder, and serve something greater than themselves. Mark’s legacy is one of inspiration, excellence, and deep humanity. He showed us what it means to lead with heart, to serve with honor, and to fly with purpose.

Today, as we bid farewell to our friend and brother in blue, we do so with heavy hearts and eternal gratitude. We will see him in the vapor trails, feel him in the roar of the engines, and carry him in every maneuver we fly.

Fair winds and following seas, Mark. You’ve flown your last flight, but your spirit soars on in every pass, every roll, every child who looks to the sky and believes.

Blue skies forever. 💙✈️