
Blue Angel Phantoms
For 79 years, the Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron has flown air shows in front of millions of people around the world. Now hear from the pilots & crew that were a part of this incredible history as they share their stories. Subscribe to the Blue Angel Phantoms podcast and YouTube channel for the latest interviews.
Blue Angel Phantoms
He Led the Blue Angels. Then He Disappeared in Vietnam. His Wife's Fight for Answers
SUPPORT THE MISSION
This is the third episode in a special four-part series launching during Mental Health Awareness Month to support the Blue Angels Foundation, whose mission is to provide critical care and services to wounded veterans transitioning back to civilian life.
Donate today ➡️ https://blueangelsfoundation.givevirtuous.org/donate/support-our-nations-veterans-blue-angels-phantoms-fundraiser
Anyone who donates $250 or more will receive a limited-edition Blue Angel Phantoms trucker hat—this hat is not available for sale.
All donors, regardless of amount, will also be entered into a drawing on July 1, 2025 to receive a giveaway bundle that includes:
🔵 A Blue Angel Phantoms hat
🔵 Blue Angels Homecoming by Laura Bogan
🔵 A metal aircraft timeline art piece by Chris Bogan
❗ After donating, be sure to check your confirmation email and fill out the contact form to confirm you want to be entered into the drawing and provide your name and shipping address.
Fundraiser officially ends on Monday, June 30, 2025
For any questions regarding this fundraiser, reach out to Ryan via email: Ryan@rynomediaproductions.com
EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
Captain Harley H. Hall was the Flight Leader and Commanding Officer of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels—a decorated combat pilot, father, and husband. On January 27, 1973, he became the last U.S. Naval Aviator shot down during the Vietnam War. Despite being seen alive on the ground, Harley was never returned with the other POWs.
In this rare and deeply personal interview, Mary Lou Hall—Harley’s wife—shares her powerful story. She recounts how they met, what it was like supporting Harley during his time with the Blue Angels, and the devastating day she learned he had been shot down. Most importantly, she speaks to the decades-long battle she fought for answers—not just for herself, but as a leading advocate for POW/MIA families across the country.
This audio interview is accompanied by rare historical footage from Threshold: The Blue Angels Experience, photography by former Blue Angels team photographer Ron Rentfrow, and archival materials from the National Archives and Vanderbilt News Archive.