Photo Courtesy Of The National Salute to America’s Heroes
“The Greatest Show Above the Earth” isn’t just a spectacle — it’s a tribute. And behind it all is Mickey Markoff, the mastermind who ensures the real stars of the show aren’t performers but servicemembers.
Unlike P.T. Barnum, who thrived in the spotlight, Markoff, the executive producer of the Hyundai Air & Sea Show, prefers to work behind the scenes, letting the military take center stage.
The free event, which takes place Memorial Day weekend on Miami Beach, is part of the National Salute to America’s Heroes — essentially, a love letter to the United States Armed Forces. Recognizing there was not a signature national event to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice, Markoff came out of retirement to create this annual showcase of military equipment, exercises and tactical demonstrations in the sky, on the water and on the sand.
As spectacular as this festival is, Markoff says its true purpose is what matters most. It helps the military with “recruiting, morale, retention and reconnecting with the American public,” he explains. He hopes attendees get to know the people wearing the uniforms and that kids who climb on a tank, watch troops parachute out of a plane or see fighter jets soar in formation might one day be inspired to enlist.
The 69-year-old Parkland resident recalls a family vacation at age 13 that changed the course of his life. A chance encounter with Benihana founder Rocky Aoki led to an unforgettable ride on Aoki’s race boat. It was then that Markoff discovered his need for speed — eventually earning him the nickname “Go Fast.”
Over his career, he’s produced powerboat, car and motorsport races, Fleet Week, a touring Air Force Experience and air and sea shows in Chicago, Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
“I’ve learned that life is a journey, not a destination, and in the process of your journey, certain things lead to certain other things,” he says. “I have no idea where the last part of the journey is.”
With the event renewed for another three years, Markoff remains dedicated to his mission. His attention to detail is unwavering and he promises to produce “a world-class event, not just a first‑class event.”