One Of The Last Such Remaining Structures In The Country At Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport

A non-profit group in Gulfport, MS, known as The Brown Condor Association hopes to be able to save an historic structure at Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, and is working to raise some $7 million for the effort.

The structure is thought to be one of the last remaining WWII aircraft hangars in the country. The association told airport commissioners that the goal is to establish a museum to honor the state's aviation and aerospace accomplishments.

The hangar was damaged by hurricane Katrina, and the Airport Authority received $3.2 million from FEMA for repairs. The airport commission places the total cost of the rehabilitation of the building at $10 to $11 million, according to a report in the Sun Herald newspaper.

FEMA said the airport authority could not use the money it received to "mothball" the building until it could be repaired. It is continuing to deteriorate as time goes by.  Commissioner Travis Lott called it an "eyesore."

The clock is ticking. If the money is not spent by the end of 2014 ... FEMA wants it back.

FMI: www.flygpt.com, www.browncondorassociation.com