In one scene from National Geographic’s new limited series about naval fighter pilots, Navy Lt. j.g. Andrew Seepe speeds back to base in his T-45 Goshawk trainer following a successful skills test.

Arthur Van Haren Jr., a Mexican-American, was a highly decorated fighter pilot ace in WWII. He served in the Pacific Theater with the VF-2, 'The Rippers,' a squadron known for producing numerous aces.

Four of the advanced fighter training students featured in a new National Geographic documentary series, from left to right: Capt. Micah Nissly, LTJG Spenser Neel, LTJG Dylan Horan and Capt. Steph ...