Key facts
- The U.S. Marine Corps retired the AV-8B Harrier II fighter jet.
- The AV-8B Harrier II is known for its vertical takeoff and landing capabilities.
- A retirement ceremony was held on Wednesday at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C.
- Over 5,000 people attended the ceremony.
The U.S. Marine Corps officially retired the AV-8B Harrier II, a unique fighter jet renowned for its ability to take off and land vertically, eliminating the need for a traditional runway. A "sundown" ceremony was held on Wednesday at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, to mark the occasion. The event drew a significant crowd, with more than 5,000 people in attendance to witness the final flight of the last U.S. unit operating the iconic aircraft.