As sports enthusiasts from Seattle and New England head to Santa Clara, California, this weekend for Super Bowl LX, they are in for a soaring spectacle. A special military flyover will accompany the national anthem, setting the stage for a patriotic display at Levi’s Stadium.
On February 8, 2026, members of four U.S. Navy tactical squadrons will join forces with the U.S. Air Force for a flyover to mark America’s 250th anniversary. This aerial demonstration will feature aircraft from various bases, including NAS Lemoore and Fresno Air National Guard Base.
Commander Mike Jennings, originally from Camby, Indiana, will be one of the Navy pilots participating in this significant event. Jennings, who leads the VFA-97 squadron at NAS Lemoore, shared his excitement: “Being able to be part of such a momentous event representing the Navy is an amazing responsibility. The chance for my children to see what I do on TV is a rare opportunity and something I think will be a great memory for myself, my wife, and my two boys.”
“The chance for my children to see what I do on TV is a rare opportunity and something I think will be a great memory for myself, my wife, and my two boys.”
The impressive eight-aircraft formation will include F/A-18 E/F Super Hornets, F-35C Lightning IIs, F-15C Eagles, and B-1B Lancers, showcasing a blend of naval and air force power.
Navy Commander Fondly Recalls Midwestern Roots
Although stationed in California, Commander Jennings holds his Indiana upbringing in high regard. He is a Mooresville High School graduate and earned his degree in aviation technology from Purdue University. Reflecting on his roots, Jennings emphasized, “I was from a small town growing up, so we had to search for opportunities. I believe growing up there taught me how to be ambitious, search for those opportunities, and the work ethic to enable that.”
“I was from a small town growing up, so we had to search for opportunities,” Jennings said. “I believe growing up there taught me how to be ambitious, search for those opportunities, and the work ethic to enable that.”
A Long Road to U.S. Navy Commander
Jennings’ career in the Navy spans 19 years, beginning with his commission through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps in 2007. He earned his Naval Aviator Wings in 2009 and trained with the VFA-125 “Rough Raiders” before moving on to operational flying with the “Fists of the Fleet” of VFA-25. His service includes combat deployments aboard the USS CARL VINSON in support of major operations.
Jennings’ journey included graduating from the Navy Fighter Weapons School TOPGUN and training on the F-35C Lightning II. His academic pursuits at the United States Naval War College earned him a Master’s in Defense and Strategic Studies. Currently, he commands the “Warhawks” of VFA-97.
Inspired by his family’s military legacy, Jennings noted, “Both my grandfathers served during World War II, and I’ve been interested in military aviation since I was three years old.”
“Both my grandfathers served during World War II, and I’ve been interested in military aviation since I was three years old,” Jennings said.
Military Flyovers Commemorate America’s 250th Birthday
The joint flyover by the Air Force and Navy is described by the U.S. Air Force Public Affairs as “a powerful symbol of America’s 250 years of airpower and maritime strength.” It represents the collaborative efforts of the entire military to defend the nation and celebrate its long-standing freedom.
With a fleet of over 2,000 aircraft, the U.S. Navy plays a crucial role in maintaining security and prosperity worldwide. The Navy celebrates this milestone year, highlighting over 250 years of defending freedom and protecting prosperity across the globe.
