The image shows a formation flight of the B-2 "Stealth" bomber and the first prototype YB-49 flying wing. The jet-powered YB-49 (serial number 42-102367) made its first flight in October 1947, and thus shares its anniversary with the Air Force. Although the YB-49 never made it to production, and the remaining flying wings were subsequently ordered dismantled and scrapped, the B-2 stands as a direct descendant of the original Northrop design. Showing the first YB-49 prototype alongside the first B-2 test air vehicle (AV-1, serial number 82-1066) which first flew in July 1989, emphasizes just how remarkable the design was at the time. No two other aircraft better show the "then and now" aspect of the Air Force's mission during the past 50 years, not only in their similarities, but in their differences. As the first B-2 entered operational service in December 1993. Hence, the title has a double meaning, referring not only to the aircraft shown, but to its heritage.