Watch P-51 Mustangs and a B-25 Mitchell Soar Over Army Parade

The skies above Washington, D.C., came alive on June 14, 2025, with a rare formation flight featuring World War II aircraft. During the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday celebration, two P‑51 Mustang fighters flew alongside a B‑25 Mitchell bomber. This striking combination brought back memories of the air power that shaped history.

Historic Aircraft Above the National Mall

At around 13 minutes into the parade, the flyover began as the B‑25 Mitchell led the group, its twin engines roaring. The P‑51 Mustangs, known for their speed and agility, flanked the bomber on both sides. This scene echoed the formation tactics used in World War II and offered a vivid link to the past.

Those flying in the parade carried decades of meaning with them. The B‑25 became famous for its role in the Doolittle Raid on Tokyo in 1942, while the P‑51 Mustang earned a reputation as one of the best escort fighters of the war. Together, they symbolized the collaboration between bomber and escort aircraft that helped shape Allied success.

Creating a Timeless Moment

Organizers timed the flyover to appear just after the parade’s land components, creating a seamless blend of history and spectacle. This flyover was part of a larger show that included over 62 aircraft, 128 military vehicles, and 6,000 troops in period dress, telling a story from the Revolutionary War to modern times.

The sight of vintage warbirds soaring over the symbols of U.S. history—such as the Washington Monument—gave spectators a moment of awe. It was more than a celebration; it was a living lesson in aviation history.

Although this flyover took place amid political debate, many viewers found it a meaningful tribute. It not only celebrated the past but also reminded people of the skill, courage, and unity these pilots and aircraft represented. The formation of the B‑25 and P‑51s made the Army’s 250th birthday feel like a living history lesson in the sky.

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