The U.S. Marine Corps held a retirement ceremony for the AV-8B Harrier II fighter jet on June 4, 2026, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. The Harrier II is known for its ability to take off and land vertically without the need for a runway. The event, referred to as a 'sundown' ceremony, attracted over 5,000 attendees who witnessed the final flight of the last U.S. unit operating the aircraft.
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U.S. Marine Corps Retires AV-8B Harrier II Fighter Jet
The U.S. Marine Corps retired the AV-8B Harrier II fighter jet during a ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, on June 4, 2026. The Harrier II is notable for its vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, and the event was attended by more than 5,000 people.
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Marines retire Harrier ‘jump jet’
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U.S. Marine Corps Retires AV-8B Harrier II Fighter Jet