One particularly moving section of the museum is the Prisoner of War and Missing in Action Memorial, which tells the stories of aviators who endured captivity or never returned. Through personal artifacts and firsthand accounts, these exhibits remind visitors that the history of aviation is inseparable from the human cost of war.
The museum also recognizes the contributions of women in naval aviation, celebrating trailblazers who broke barriers in training, combat support, and leadership roles.
Restoration and Preservation: The Art of Bringing History Back to Life
Behind the public exhibits lies a vast effort dedicated to restoration and preservation. The museum’s Aircraft Restoration Hangar, located at the nearby Chevalier Field, houses dozens of aircraft in various stages of repair. Skilled craftsmen and volunteers painstakingly restore each piece, often using original materials and blueprints to ensure authenticity.
Many of the aircraft on display were recovered from remote crash sites, ocean floors, or forgotten airfields. Each restoration is a journey through history — uncovering the design, technology, and wear that tells the story of an aircraft’s life. These efforts ensure that future generations can continue to witness the evolution of flight through tangible, living artifacts. shutdown123