A Huntingtown native will help thrill millions when U.S. Navy fighter jets roar over Levi’s Stadium during the Super Bowl LX national anthem flyover on Feb. 8, 2026.
Lt. Cmdr. Dewayne Hooper, assigned as a naval flight officer to the “Bounty Hunters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2, is part of the Navy contingent supporting the event in Santa Clara, California. The joint flyover marks America’s 250th birthday by uniting Navy and Air Force aircraft in a rare combined formation during the pre-game performance.
The eight-aircraft display features Navy F/A-18E/F Super Hornets from VFA-2, VFA-113 “Stingers,” and VFA-192 “Golden Dragons,” plus F-35C Lightning IIs from VFA-97 “Warhawks,” all based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California. Air Force assets include F-15C Eagles from Fresno Air National Guard Base, California, and B-1B Lancers from Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota.
This historic collaboration commemorates 250 years of U.S. independence while showcasing naval aviation’s role in projecting power and preserving national security. The flyover highlights the Navy’s global reach with more than 2,000 aircraft operating forward-deployed to deter threats, respond to crises, and ensure freedom and prosperity.
Hooper, who grew up in Huntingtown, Maryland, brings local roots to the high-profile mission. He graduated from Huntingtown High School in 2009 and earned a bachelor’s degree in applied physics from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2013. He joined the Navy 12 years ago, initially to fund his education.
“I’ve been a big fan of the NFL since I was a young kid. Go Ravens!” Hooper said. “Being able to be a part of this flyover and seeing my two worlds collide really is a dream come true.”
He credits Calvert County’s community for shaping his success. “The people of Calvert County are hard-working folks with a strong work ethic and pride in a job well done,” Hooper said. “That was instilled in all of us from a young age and has carried on throughout my career.”
Hooper’s path reflects a shift from practical beginnings to dedicated service. “Honestly, joining the Navy started as a way to go to school for free,” he said. “But over the years, it has become a great opportunity to give back to my community and country as a whole.”
The F/A-18 Super Hornet, which Hooper’s squadron operates, ranks among the world’s most advanced fighters. These carrier-based aircraft excel in air-to-air combat and precision land strikes, delivering flexible, lethal capability from sea or forward positions.
The Navy’s involvement underscores its enduring mission: sailing globally for more than 250 years to defend freedom and protect prosperity, a legacy tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration in 2026.