More To Do, More To See

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base will host “Freedom’s Call” at 2000 July 1st on the grounds behind the National Museum of the United States Air Force. Freedom’s Call highlights military history and experiences, combining narratives and inspiring heritage stories. Also, yet more aviation treasure is now on display at the museum

The event includes flyovers of aircraft ranging from vintage planes to today’s jets, as well as performances by the U.S. Air Force Band of Flight, a parachute jump team and the U.S. Sabre Drill Team. The evening concludes with a fireworks show at 2200, replacing the display typically held on July 4th.

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required. Refreshments will be available for purchase, and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets.

An exhibit highlighting the Air Force's early Cold War reconnaissance opened to the public at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio June 15th.

"Dragon Lady: The U-2 and Early Cold War Reconnaissance" exhibit joins the museum's permanent displays in the Cold War Gallery.

The U-2 has played a vital role in American strategic intelligence for more than 50 years. The unique high-flying reconnaissance jet was designed early in the Cold War to overfly and photograph military activities in the Soviet Union and other communist nations. Nicknamed "Dragon Lady" after a 1930s comic strip character, the aircraft has been used by the U.S. Air Force, the Central Intelligence Agency and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

The museum's exhibit highlights the U-2 aircraft, reconnaissance missions and photo interpretation. Featured artifacts include a U-2 pilot suit and an A-2 camera set.

FMI: www.wpafb.af.mil/museum/