WIX Archives

Re: USAFM long

Posted by JimH on Thu Oct 03, 2002 08:43:20 AM

In reply top Re: USAFM posted by kent on Thu Oct 03, 2002 08:23:15 AM

: They indicated all WWII aircraft will be in the WWII galla
: ry. I have aways been a dedicated supporter of the museum
: and will remain so. I just got taken back with the attitud
: e. Most people there are very helpful!

The USAFM has seen its share of "colorful" figures over the years and alot of the wheels that are turning now were set in place many many years ago. I think Metcalf has done a tremendous job of keeping the wheels rolling, attitude aside. I've had my share of "run ins" with docents, all friendly...mostly "don't touch" the airplanes...well dammit it is hard not to want to touch history ;) I was present when they flew in Shoo Shoo Baby and even then there was a movement and hotly contested debate to keep her airworthy. It was all for not as she was squirrled away in the preservation hangar and pumped full of preservatives. I am a diehard warbird enthusiast but I have to say that I can visit that museum year after year and not feel bad that these aircraft are forever grounded. It is a magnificent tribute to those that served in the military. We can all take the satisfaction of knowing that some of the more popular birds have a flying example somewhere in the world. It never ceases to move me to walk through those displays, seeing all those A-2's and personal effects, and see the aircraft type that was involved in the history, knowing that barring any natural disaster they will be there indefinetly. Museum directors come and go...but the history stays.

jim

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