Third Marine Aircraft Wing's first F-35B taxis in Fri., Nov. 16, 2012 at approximately 1 p.m. on the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma flightline.  Piloted by F-35 pilot instructor Maj. A. C. Liberman, today's arrival highlights next week's official re-designation of Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 121, an F/A-18 Hornet Squadron, as the world's first operational F-35 squadron at MCAS Yuma.  The F-35B accomplishes the multi-role, fifth-generation capabilities needed across the full spectrum of military operations to deter potential adversaries and protect our nation and its interests.  Known as the F-35 Lightning II, the F-35B will eventually replace the Corps' aging legacy tactical fleet of AV-8B Harriers, F/A-18 Hornets and EA-6B Prowlers.
Lance Cpl. William Waterstreet
Taken on 16 November 2012
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