Thousands of onlookers, including more than 500 World War II veterans, the youngest in their late 80s, showed up on the National Mall, gathered on bridges and rooftops throughout the city to watch dozens of World War II planes flyover to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. A total of 15 formations, including this “escorting the bombers” formation of four P-51 Mustangs, wowed the crowds. The North American Aviation P-51 was the first plane with the range to escort bombers to their target area.