A contractor scales the U.S. Air Force Memorial during a periodic cleaning operation in Arlington, Va., March 24, 2026. Completed in 2006, the memorial undergoes cleaning and inspection every five years. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brandon Thomas)

A technician inspects the U.S. Air Force Memorial, Arlington, Va., March 24, 2026. Completed in 2006, the memorial undergoes cleaning and inspection every five years to preserve the structure’s appearance and integrity. (U.S Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Arlene Carrara)

A contractor works at the U.S. Air Force Memorial during a periodic cleaning operation in Arlington, Va., March 24, 2026. In 1993, the U.S. Congress authorized the creation of a memorial honoring the men and women who served in the U.S. Air Force and its predecessors. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brandon Thomas)

A technician prepares spires for cleaning and inspection at the U.S. Air Force Memorial, Arlington, Va., March 24, 2026. The spires were designed to represent the jet contrails created by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds during the “bomb burst” aerial maneuver. (U.S Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Arlene Carrara)