Exhibit explores role of U.S. Army Air Forces in securing WWII victory

"Tactical Airpower in Europe," a new permanent exhibition at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, explores how close cooperation between ground troops and the Army Air Forces shaped the course of World War II. Photo courtesy of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

Credit: National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

Credit: National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

"Tactical Airpower in Europe," a new permanent exhibition at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, explores how close cooperation between ground troops and the Army Air Forces shaped the course of World War II. Photo courtesy of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
Lifestyles
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4 hours ago
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The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force’s new permanent exhibit, “Tactical Airpower in Europe,” highlights the teamwork of ground troops and the Army Air Forces in securing victory in Europe during World War II.

BACKGROUND

By destroying enemy forces, supporting Allied advances and disrupting supply lines, the course of the war was reshaped. Following the D-Day invasion in June 1944, tactical airpower proved essential in pushing German forces from occupied nations and achieving final victory on May 8, 1945 (V-E Day).

WHAT TO EXPECT

A centerpiece of the exhibit is a fully restored Douglas A-26 Invader cockpit, allowing you to step inside and participate in an interactive simulation of a tactical bombing run over Europe. Rare artifacts and detailed displays are also engaging features.

INSIGHT

“This exhibit illustrates not only the strength of American airpower but also the ingenuity and teamwork that were crucial to Allied success in World War II,” said David Tillotson, director of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, in a press statement. “We’re excited to offer visitors a chance to both learn from the history and immerse themselves in the experience of tactical air operations.”

HOW TO GO

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, 1100 Spaatz St., Dayton, is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. Admission to the museum is free and there is no charge for parking.

For more information, visit nationalmuseum.af.mil.

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force has opened a new permanent exhibit, "Tactical Airpower in Europe," highlighting the vital role of the U.S. Army Air Forces in securing victory in Europe during World War II. Photo courtesy of National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

Credit: National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

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Credit: National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

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About the Author

Russell Florence Jr. is a team leader/coordinator of Lifestyles/Dayton Daily News. He has been an arts/lifestyles reporter for Dayton Daily News since 2012. He has served on Dayton Daily News Community Board of Contributors and assisted Dayton Daily News Editorial Board. He received his BA in mass communications from Wright State University.