United States Navy officials say the Blue Angels will return to the air by the country's celebration of Independence Day. Based in Pensacola, Florida, the Blue Angels will resume performances July 2nd at an air show in Michigan.

They haven't performed since Marine Captain Jeff Kuss was killed June 2nd in Smyrna. You'll recall he was practicing for the Great Tennessee Air Show, but crashed after takeoff.

Commander Ryan Bernacchi says the Blue Angels have been grateful for their fans' patience as they "navigated through the very difficult loss of our teammate."

By the way, the annual Smyrna Independence Day Celebration on Friday, July 1st will be dedicated to Kuss. Music, food and fun activities will take place at Lee Victory Recreation Park (102 Sam Ridley Parkway), beginning at 5pm.

For past related stories, log-on to WGNSRadio.com, keyword Jeff Kuss.