The first structural element of the new Air Force Memorial is now in place on the site overlooking the Pentagon. Construction crews hoisted the 40-foot tall, 28-ton base section of the first spire into position on Feb. 10. 
The memorial includes three stainless steel spires—the highest of which will rise 270 feet—that are being delivered in 15 segments over the next four months. The Air Force Memorial Foundation plans to complete the project in September and formally open the site on Oct. 13.
The 301st Fighter Wing in Fort Worth, Texas, became the first standalone Reserve unit in the Air Force to get its own F-35s, welcoming the first fighter Nov. 5.