Captain Jeff Kuss died two years ago after his jet crashed in a Smyrna field. Saturday morning, a memorial was held, dedicated in his memory.
Emotions were raw as Smyrna relived a day that ended the life of a Blue Angel, but Saturday was all about celebrating Capt. Kuss' legacy.
Hundreds of people gathered at Lee Victory Recreation Park to participate in the memorial dedication for Capt. Kuss. It was a celebration, but a somber one.
Back in June 2016, Capt. Kuss' jet crashed a day before the Great Tennessee Air Show in Smyrna.
Two years ago, the community gathered in the park for a vigil to grieve together, but Saturday, they gathered to celebrate the life and legacy the Blue Angel left behind.
A Blue Angel F/A-18C Hornet is now in place at the Capt. Jeff Kuss United States Marine Corps Memorial. It's something the town wanted to put together to pay tribute to Capt. Kuss, and in the process, the community raised more than $1.4 million for the memorial.
His wife, Christina Kuss, was there for the dedication, and she was overcome with emotion.
"I'm looking forward to the day when it feels peaceful and the best time for all of our hearts, to show my children how much their papa meant to so many people. Thank you all for giving me that opportunity with this incredible display of love for their father," she said.
The memorial is officially open to the public. Learn more about it here.
