Stadium flyovers are a common occurrence, especially on the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks. However, the recent flyover at Target Field in Minnesota had a special family touch. Minnesota Twins relief pitcher Griffin Jax, who is also an Air Force Reserve captain, had a unique moment when four F-35 Lightning IIs flew across the sky as he prepared to receive a ceremonial first pitch from his brother Carson. Two of the fighter jets were piloted by Griffin’s brother, Parker, and Parker’s wife, Chandler.

The Jax family has a strong connection to the Air Force. Griffin, who was recruited to the Air Force Academy for baseball, participated in the Air Force’s World Class Athlete Program before transferring to the Reserve in 2019. Carson is stationed at Travis Air Force Base in California, while Parker and Chandler serve in the 388th Fighter Wing based in Utah – all four family members hold the rank of captain.

The flyover, which was in the planning stages for six months, finally came to fruition with the help of the 133rd Airlift Wing of the Minnesota National Guard. Parker mentioned that the mission planning continued up until the day of the flyover to ensure everything went smoothly, from fuel levels to timing.

The brothers expressed their joy at being able to reunite for this special occasion, as their military duties often keep them apart. Carson noted that it had been three years since all three brothers had been together, making the event even more significant for the entire family. The flyover, executed flawlessly by the F-35 Lightning IIs, added an extra layer of patriotism and pride to the game at Target Field.