New Facility Preserves Aero-History

You can never have too many aviation museums, or places of interest -- and Aero-News was pleased to learn this week of the opening of a new aviation-themed facility known as the Spirit of Flight Hall of Honor in Lafayette, CO. The 3000 sq. ft. facility is co-located at AirAssets International’s corporate offices and holds hundreds of artifacts, including an inverted V-12 engine from a WWII German Messerschmitt Bf-109 fighter aircraft.

Wings and other parts from German fighter aircraft display markings still visible after 60 years. Collages of local aviation heroes are placed among the parts and memorabilia as a tribute to the efforts and sacrifice given for freedom.

"We are thrilled to be able to publicly display some historic aircraft artifacts and memorabilia. It has taken years to accumulate parts, memorabilia, uniforms, art and much more and we are sure the general public will enjoy a stroll back in history when they experience the Hall of Honor," said Gordon Page, Managing Director of the Spirit of Flight Center.

International aircraft modeling artist Brian Criner has placed on display the first of several award winning models that include a Dornier Do-335 A-12 and the Messerschmitt 262 A-1. Also on display is a WWII German Kettenkraftrad vehicle.

A special exhibit at the Spirit of Flight Hall of Honor is dedicated to the Women Air Force Service Pilots. The exhibit features Mary Elizabeth Trebing, a Louisville, CO resident who was one of the 38 WASPs killed in action during WWII.

The facility is open Monday-Friday from 10am-2pm or by appointment on weekends. Further information is available

FMI: www.warbirdrecovery.com