Triggered by the events of September 11, 2001, the Rose Parade begins with a special patriotic opening featuring Grand Marshal Regis Philbin, singer Martina McBride and flyovers by the Marine Corps F/A-18 “Hornets” and the U.S. Air Force B-2 “Spirit” (also known as the Stealth Bomber.)
For the first time in history, the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game are held on different days as The Granddaddy of Them All hosts the National Championship Rose Bowl Game on January 3, 2002.