6:15 p.m. free showing of the film, Speed and Angels and Q&A with producer

8:00 p.m. Lecture begins

Admiral Edward L. “Whitey” Feightner is a nine-victory WWII ace who flew F4F Wildcats and F6F Hellcats. After the war, he was assigned as a test pilot at NATC Patuxent River, Maryland, where he tested the cantankerous F7U Cutlass. His illustrious career also included flying as a member of the “Blue Angels.” Among his many command positions, Admiral Feightner also directed the design of future naval aircraft such as the F-14 and Navy Strike Fighter and implemented fundamental changes for all naval aviation forces before retiring in 1974 after 33 years in the Navy.

This lecture is made possible through the generous support of Bombardier.

Speed and Angels

This movie was inspired by the passion of two young Navy officers pursuing their childhood dream of becoming naval aviators flying the F-14 Tomcat. From dogfights in the Nevada desert, to night landings on aircraft carriers in the Atlantic, what begins as a story of realizing a childhood dream turns into a story of fighting for one's life.

Francesco Chierici, the producer, is a screenwriter and distinguished U.S. Navy fighter pilot. With notable accomplishments in both arenas, Francesco has a unique perspective and skills that made this film the perfect project for him to bring to life.

Speed and Angels courtesy of Francesco Chierici and the Military Channel.