The 2025 World Police & Fire Games in Birmingham got off to a rousing start Friday night, courtesy of Auburn’s bald eagle Independence.

In video shared on social media, Indy made the flight as a “special presentation” in Legacy Arena.

The eagle’s six-foot wingspan provided a thrilling sight to the spectators and participants.

The games, which began Friday, involve more than 8,500 athletes from 70 countries. The games end July 6. They involve first responders from around the world who are current and retired public agency personnel.

Indy, or Independence, is a bald eagle at Auburn University’s Raptor Center in the College of Veterinary Science.

Indy came to the center in 2018 from a Florida rehabilitation center following a wing injury. Although her wing healed, she imprinted on people during her time in rehab and is non-releasable, according to the school website.

She has flown before Auburn football games since 2021 and flew to open a high school championship game at Jordan-Hare Stadium in 2019.