New England Air Museum | Fall 2023 Newsletter

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AIRWAYS Vo l . 5 3 , N o . 3

New Exhibits – The Kosciuszko Squadron – New England Women In Aviation – The Tuskegee Airmen

Breaking Records at the Museum

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Fall 2023

The Power of Inspiration B y B o b S ta n g a r o n e , C h a i r m a n , B o a r d o f D i r e c t o r s

Our mission at the New England Air Museum is to restore, preserve, engage, inspire and educate. However, our mission transcends mere words.

These simple words form the bedrock of a vast and meaningful spectrum of endeavors that have played a key role in the evolution of our Museum. These same words have contributed significantly to the advancement not only of our Museum, but also of countless institutions that have graced humanity for millennia.

Why do we place such emphasis on restoration and preservation? The answer seems self-evident. Through restoration, we breathe life into historical artifacts, capturing the essence of the past and offering valuable insights into the journey that has brought us to the present. By preserving these treasures, we safeguard our cultural heritage and ensure that future generations can learn from and be inspired by our collective history.

Our dedication to education is a guiding force propelling us into the future.

By sharing knowledge, fostering curiosity, and encouraging learning, we empower individuals to create a better tomorrow. As we navigate the complexities of our world, understanding our past equips us to make informed decisions, adapt to evolving technologies, and shape a brighter future.

Inspiration, though, is what really moves the needle of civilization because it drives big ideas that motivate and enable profound change. Just look at the role inspiration has played in the development of all the great innovations that have changed our lives … like the airplane.

In fact, the word museum comes from the word muse, a source of inspiration.

We strive to inspire in everything we do at the New England Air Museum because inspiration changes lives not only for the individual inspired but also for those around that person and those who are touched by his or her actions.

Inspiration leads to curiosity, which leads to action, which leads to progress. That’s how we advance as a society.

Since time immemorial, museums have served as the gatekeepers of our shared human experience. And as custodians of this tradition, we stand committed to pushing the boundaries of knowledge, sparking inspiration, and cultivating a deeper appreciation for the marvels of flight and human ingenuity.

At our Museum, we are blessed with remarkably talented volunteers who are masters of restoration and preservation, establishing an important foundation on the journey to inspiration. That, coupled with our staff of museum professionals and education programs, provides a powerful catalyst in changing lives.

So next time you visit the New England Air Museum, in person or virtually, think about the compelling stories — the brilliance, the innovation, the courage, the determination, the sacrifice — behind each and every artifact in our treasured collection.

Those stories — and there are thousands of them — are truly inspiring.

Perhaps you will be moved to do something profound as a result. ✪

Not yet a member?

Join today to unlock special rewards and access at the New England Air Museum! Visit neam.org/pages/membership to join or renew today!

NEW ENGLAND AIR MUSEUM

36 Perimeter Road Windsor Locks, CT 06096 Tel: 860/623-3305 www.neam.org Officers Robert Stangarone, Chairman Warren M. Boley, Vice Chairman Jeffrey A. Dominick, Treasurer Kim A. Jones, Secretary Directors Morgan Barrieau Cedric Beckett Kate McGinnis Collins William A. Costen Samantha Foster William P. Gonet Dick Koenig Carroll Lane Michael McGuire Cornelius P. O’Leary Stephen R. Perez Marie A. Robert Thomas S. Sargis Joseph Thorstenson Katherine Wadsworth Jeffrey J. White Joseph Wolnick Directors Emeritus Lawrence R. Churchill George A. Clyde Robert M. Garneau Joseph G. Lynch Michael J. Morneau Roy C.J. Normen William A. O’Neill Gov. M Jodi Rell Igor I. Sikorsky, Jr. Nelson A. Sly, Jr. New England Air Museum Staff Stephanie Abrams, President & CEO Richard Cleary, VP of Development Karen Giroux, Controller & Grants Officer Amanda Goodheart Parks, Ph.D., Dir. of Education Tim Garland, Dir. of Facilities Jeanie Rozbora, Dir. of Visitor Services / Sales Michelle Salamone, Dir. of Sales & Marketing / Events Joshua D. Taylor, Collections Manager Mike Thornton, Curator Robert Vozzola, Restoration Coordinator Tianna Darling, Executive Assistant

On the cover: Our iconic B-29 Superfortress.

(Photo by Simeon Pol)

Welcome to the new New England Air Museum B y S t e p h a n i e A b r a m s , P r e s i d e n t & C EO

The New England Air Museum has undergone a remarkable period of revitalization, expansion, and transformation.

You may be wondering just how much could have changed in two years.

Three new exhibits, three exciting new simulators, a beautiful new outdoor patio, two remodeled conference rooms with all new furnishings, a refurbished original beacon tower used by the first airmail carriers for navigation, a beautiful new fence and parking lot, a new website, aggressive advertising and social media which is promoting us to a broader audience, and much more on the way!

We are also thrilled to welcome two exceptional professionals, Mike Thornton as Curator and Joshua D. Taylor as Collections Manager to the New England Air Museum team. As the museum continues to grow and flourish, these individuals bring with

them a wealth of knowledge and experience, promising to enhance our institution’s offerings and curatorial endeavors.

In celebration of our “Kosciuszko Squadron 303” exhibit that celebrates the Polish heroes most historians believe enabled the Allies to win the Battle of Britain, we had a very special visitor! Former Polish President Lech Walesa toured the museum along with Governor Ned Lamont and Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz and spoke to an audience of more than 300 people in our Military Hangar.

In June, we unveiled our most ambitious exhibit to date, “The Tuskegee Airmen: Their Untold Stories,” which presents the legacy of these American heroes through interviews we filmed with the few surviving Airmen, their grandchildren, friends and families. This exhibit pays homage to their extraordinary contributions and serves as a testament to their unconquerable spirit that transcended the boundaries of the times. Their legacy is now intricately

woven into the fabric of our museum, inspiring visitors of all ages.

Our new videos, and digital technologies such as augmented reality, will ignite your curiosity and transport you through the captivating history and future of aviation. From vintage aircraft to groundbreaking

Our goal is to continue creating an exciting visitor experience. innovations, each exhibit is a window into the remarkable achievements that have shaped and will continue to shape our lives.

To truly immerse you in the wonder of flight, we have added cutting-edge simulators that offer an unparalleled experience of piloting an aircraft. Strap (Continued)

> Take flight in our immersive F/A-18 simulator!

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(Continued) in and prepare for an adventure that will challenge you to land an F/A-18 on an aircraft carrier or fly over and explore cities around the country from the air.

We are delighted to share that our attendance is soaring, and the resounding enthusiasm from our visitors is a testament to the exceptional experiences we work hard to provide. We are grateful for your continued support, which fuels our

passion to excel and create memories that will last a lifetime.

In response to popular demand, our VIP tours are back! These personalized journeys are docent-led interior tours of our B-29 Superfortress, VS-44 Flying Boat, our newly restored DC-3, and beautifully restored blimp control car. Our docents will guide you, revealing fascinating insights and behind-the-scenes stories.

> Four of the original Tuskegee Airmen, at our exhibit opening, beginning from left: Ret. 2nd Lt. Eugene Richardson, Ret. Lt. Col. Harry Stewart, Ret. Lt. Col. George Harvey, and Ret. Lt. Col James Harvey.

> From left: Governor Ned Lamont, Former Polish President Lech Walesa, State Rep. Tami Zawistowski, Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz.

We are also proud to announce our impending partnership with Central Connecticut State University to build a Challenger Center on its CCSU campus. Students will experience realistic space and underwater encounters in which they must exercise STEM skills to deal with “unexpected” emergencies that occur during each mission. This Challenger Centers will fuel and ignite their curiosity, inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers.

For adults who are passionate about aerospace, we launched Aerospace Academy, a new program that offers in-depth courses and workshops on topics such as aircraft design, engineering, and history.

As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain committed to our mission of preserving and sharing the rich history and breathtaking future of aviation.

Our goal is to continue creating an exciting visitor experience, and include plans for a new café, remodeling of the lobby and main entrance, a new museum store, new look and signage for the outside of the buildings and a new outdoor aviation park, including a memorial brick walkway leading from the new patio. The current “storage hangar” is being upgraded to a display hangar so you can see the beautifully restored historic aircraft not usually on display while we initiate a capital campaign to build a new 30,000 square foot display building by 2028. We also plan to add flight training capability at Barnes/Westfield in early 2024.

Please send us ideas and feedback; our goal is to create an exciting visitor experience, and we can’t do that without you!

Each achievement and expansion are one more step on an extraordinary journey. Please join us!

See you at the museum! ✪

NEW ENGLAND AIR MUSEUM

Photo by Toby Cregan

Welcome to the new New England Air Museum

New Exhibits B y N i c k H u r l e y , P r e v i o u s C u r at o r

O

ver the past two years, the Curatorial

Department has opened three brand-new permanent exhibits: The Kosciuszko Squadron: Defenders of Freedom (November 2021), New England Women in Aviation (March 2022), and The Tuskegee Airmen: Their Untold Stories (June 2023). In addition to rare artifacts and eye-catching imagery, these displays feature new digital interactive technology designed to enhance the visitor experience and make these important stories available to a wider audience. With each new project, we continue to set the bar higher and higher in terms of exhibit quality and originality.

These three new exhibits at the museum hold immense historical significance and have had a profound impact on both aviation and history.

The Kosciuszko Squadron: Defenders of Freedom, pays tribute to the brave individuals of the Kosciuszko Squadron, a group of Polish pilots who fought alongside the Allies during World War II. By showcasing their stories, the exhibit sheds light on the remarkable contributions made by these pilots and their impact on aviation history. It serves as a testament to the courage

and dedication of the squadron, highlighting their role in shaping the course of history.

The New England Women in Aviation exhibit highlights the often-overlooked achievements and contributions of women in aviation; it highlights the trailblazing women who defied societal norms and made significant strides in the field of aviation. The exhibit showcases their stories, accomplishments and challenges, highlighting their perseverance and resilience in a male-dominated industry. By recognizing these pioneering women, the exhibit not only celebrates their individual achievements but also highlights the broader impact of gender equality and inclusivity in aviation history.

The Tuskegee Airmen: Their Untold Stories brings to light the remarkable accomplishments and (Continued)

> The Kosciuszko Squadron Exhibit highlights these brave Polish pilots who changed the course of history; (above) Mary Goodrich Jenson’s historic pilot license, signed by aviation pioneer Orville Wright.

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New Exhibits

(Continued) struggles of the first African American military aviators in the United States Armed Forces. Despite facing racial discrimination and adversity, these brave men overcame obstacles to become skilled pilots and support personnel during World War II. The exhibit highlights their significant contributions to aviation and the broader fight for civil rights. By sharing their untold stories, the exhibit educates visitors about the importance of diversity and equality, and the impact of these brave men on aviation and history.

By presenting these historical narratives highlighted by video and digital technologies, the museum raises awareness about the transformative role of aviation in shaping our world and emphasizes the importance of preserving and honoring these legacies for future generations. ✪

> The exhibit includes a theater featuring an original, award-winning video about the Tuskegee airmen.

(Nick has returned to active duty and has been chosen as the 2023 Scholar in Residence for the US Army Center of Military History.)

> The New England Women in Aviation exhibit (below); Honoring Lemuel Custis, original Tuskegee Airmen, Hartford’s first African American police officer, and NEAM Board Member (middle left); This display contains only some of the equipment worn by the Tuskegee Airmen fighter pilots during a mission (middle right).

NEW ENGLAND AIR MUSEUM

Introducing Our New Team Members: Mike Thornton and Joshua Taylor

Mike M. Thornton — A Visionary Curator With a deep-rooted passion for curatorial studies and a vast background in museum management, Mike M. Thornton joins us as our new curator. His journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in American History and Documentary Film from Hampshire College, followed by a Master of Arts in Material Culture and Curatorial Studies from The Bard Graduate Center. His educational achievements laid the foundation for a successful career in the museum world.

Mike’s most recent role as museum director and curator at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial showcased his visionary leadership. He led a strategic overhaul of the foundation’s programmatic interpretation, presenting narrative-driven exhibitions that incorporated diverse and unexpected perspectives and collections. Notably, his curated exhibition, “There and Back: The Journey to Vietnam and Home,” garnered critical acclaim and provided an immersive experience for visitors.

His expertise extended beyond curating as he oversaw the care of diverse collections, including F all 2 0 2 3

a UH-1 Huey and V-100 Commando armored car.

Mike’s commitment to public engagement was evident in his development of virtual programming, including the groundbreaking Scholars Series, featuring leading historians in moderated public conversations.

Furthermore, Mike’s efforts in grant development, supervision of staff and interns, and public outreach underscore his dedication to advancing museum best practices and fostering a culture of excellence. His track record of successful grant acquisitions and collaboration with state legislators further solidifies his impact on the museum community.

Joshua D. Taylor — A Seasoned Collections Manager Joining Mike as our new collections manager is Joshua D. Taylor, an energetic and seasoned museum professional with a keen eye for detail. Joshua comes to us from the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, where he honed his expertise in collections management.

As a museum specialist on the Large Artifact Team, he handled and maintained an impressive array of oversized artifacts, including airplanes, aircraft engines, and historical weaponry. His utilization of The Museum System (TMS) ensured meticulous collections management, tracking the movement of hundreds of artifacts with precision and efficiency.

At the United States Coast Guard Academy, Joshua’s contributions as a collections technician contractor were invaluable. He managed a collection of over 7,000 objects,

diligently preparing for the future National United States Coast Guard Museum. His meticulous organization, custom mount creation, and handling of valuable artwork showcased his dedication to preserving history and preparing for a new museum’s grand opening.

Joshua’s passion for curating engaging exhibitions was evident during his time as a curator at Brookside Farm Museum. He researched and developed seasonal exhibitions, targeting young children and families, educating them about rural Connecticut life from 1845 to 1955. Additionally, his modernization of inventory and implementation of a collections management policy exemplified his multifaceted approach to museum work.

Joshua’s journey in the museum field began with a Master of Arts in History-Museum Studies from SUNYOneonta’s Cooperstown Graduate Program, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in History from Elmira College. ✪

From the Development Desk B y R i c k C l e a r y , VP D e v e l o p m e n t

I

t is with great excitement that I share our plans

for the near future. These groundbreaking initiatives will take you on an exhilarating journey through history and propel you into the exciting future of aviation.

Imagine stepping into a world where history and technology converge seamlessly, where aviation pioneers come to life, and where you become a part of their journey. We are embarking on several fundraising initiatives to bring these initiatives to life and redefine the way we experience the past and future of aviation.

Next-Level STEM: Amplified and Elevated

In collaboration with Central Connecticut State University (CCSU), we are set to bring a major space mission simulation to the Hartford area.

Imagine students in a briefing room, preparing for their simulated mission. Picture them taking command in a stateof-the-art mission control center, just like real astronauts.

Envision a space shuttle and space lab where their dreams of interstellar exploration come alive. This center will be > Coming Fall 2024 — a new, immersive Sikorsky exhibit, offering a unique journey through the eyes of this visionary pioneer.

more than a physical space; it will be a gateway to adventure, sparking curiosity and igniting a passion for STEM education.

This unique experience will not only double our education capacity but also inspire young minds to explore career paths they may never have imagined.

A New Horizon

We currently have more than 35 historically significant aircraft in storage. We envision a new 30,000-square-foot hangar on our Windsor Locks campus, where history and innovation collide.

We begin by tracing the evolution of aviation, starting from the 1700s when pioneers first pondered, “What is air?” Witness the birth of flight with the creation of the first hydrogen balloon. Traverse aviation’s marvels and milestones and embrace its futuristic frontiers.

Picture a state-of-the-art planetarium/auditorium where visitors can be mesmerized by celestial wonders and aviation triumphs. Envision classrooms bustling with eager learners forging connections between history and STEM education.

This new hangar will be more than a building; it will be a place of inspiration, knowledge, and discovery.

Through the Eyes of Igor Sikorsky: A Visionary’s Legacy and A Future Defined

Join us in unveiling a revamped Sikorsky Exhibit, transporting you into Igor Sikorsky’s mind. Walk in his footsteps, understand his genius, and witness his innovations. From the company’s inception to today’s trailblazing advancements, live the remarkable story of Igor Sikorsky and his impact on aviation history.

This exhibit will showcase not only the machinery but also the heart and soul of the company, along with its profound influence on Connecticut’s growth. Your donations will help bring this groundbreaking exhibit to life! > Over 35 historically significant aircraft are currently in storage. We envision a new 35,000 square foot hangar to give these aircraft the home they deserve.

Join Us in Shaping the Museum of Tomorrow

We invite you to be a part of this exhilarating journey. Your support and involvement will ensure that our museum becomes not just a repository of the past but a dynamic space that propels us into the uncharted skies of the future.

As we set our sights high, we plan to secure a bond from the state next year and spearhead an individual giving campaign to make our dreams a reality. Together, we will create a visitor experience that not only dives deep into the heart of aviation history but also propels us into the thrilling future of flight.

We love to hear from you! Please contact me with your thoughts and ideas! ✪

NEW ENGLAND AIR MUSEUM

Why Do We Restore and Preserve Old Aircraft?

B y T o m P a l s h a w , R e s t o r at i o n V o l u n t e e r

The Heartfelt Journey of a WWII Veteran and our B-29 Superfortress

B

-29A, serial number 4461975, was built in late 1945. It did not see combat in WWII but did perform surveillance flights over the Soviet Union during the cold war. Removed from active duty, it wound up being stored with seven other B-29s at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland. This is where the New England Air Museum found it in 1973.

Disassembled and trucked to Windsor Locks, it was reassembled and placed on outdoor display. Nature was not kind to “975”: The aircraft was heavily damaged in the tornado of 1979, and after nearly 30 years of exposure to harsh New England weather and being filled with nesting birds, it was badly deteriorated.

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Enter the 58th Bomb Wing Association. They approached the museum with a plan to collaborate in building a memorial hangar for the 58th, the first unit to use the B-29 in bombing Japan from China. The successful collaboration resulted in the display you see today.

Occasionally, the 58th would hold a reunion at the museum. During one of these reunions, a 90 plus-year-old 58th veteran, with a walker and a nurse, approached the museum’s executive director with one request. He said, “I have one question. I know what the answer is, but this might be the last time I can make it here. Can I go through the tunnel?” The B-29 has two pressurized cabins with a connecting tunnel over the bomb bay.

All previous directors had said “no,” but the new director said “okay.” The tunnel can be accessed by only one person at a time, so the 90-year-old went through by himself.

When he exited from the other end, his nurse said, “he hasn’t smiled like that for five years.”

That veteran’s name was Homer Bates, and for a brief moment, he was twenty years old again. This is why we restore old aircraft! ✪

The Art of Designing Extraordinary Corporate and Private Events

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By Michelle Salamone, Director of Marketing & Sales / Events t our museum, we pride ourselves on crafting

weddings that transcend the ordinary. Your story is unique, and we are here to bring your vision to life in the most remarkable way possible.

Museum members Kim and Paul said their “I do’s” at a beautiful ceremony next to the B-29 last summer. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed specialty cocktails and delicious appetizers in the Civil Hangar, then made their way to the Military Hangar for dinner and dancing. The newlyweds incorporated aviation-themed details throughout the evening, which included a custom helicopter logo projected onto the hangar doors, a bourbon tasting inside the Skycrane and a photobooth incorporating the P-47. Thank you for sharing your special day with us and best wishes, Kim and Paul!

Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting a Sangeet, a traditional Indian pre-wedding event featuring music and dance by family and friends for the bride and groom.

400 people attended this stunning event. The vibrant colors, captivating traditions, and enchanting atmosphere made it an unforgettable celebration of love and culture.

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Weddings aren’t the only events keeping us busy! Corporate meetings and dinners, graduation parties, military ceremonies and employee outings are just some of the other events we are helping our guests host at the museum.

Fostering Connection and Success: Empowering Employees through Extraordinary Corporate Events

At our exceptional venue, we specialize in hosting unique corporate functions that leave a lasting impression on companies from the aerospace, insurance, and big media industries. With our meticulous attention to detail, spectacular lighting, and extraordinary culinary offerings, we create events that go beyond expectations, ensuring your employees will forever feel recognized and appreciated.

From the moment they step into our space, they will be immersed in an extraordinary environment that caters to your industry and celebrates their achievements. ✪

NEW ENGLAND AIR MUSEUM

Breaking Records at the Museum

By Jeanie Rozbora, Director of Visitor Services / Sales

T

he word is out and we are

breaking our previous records! With our increased media coverage, advertising and new technology, we have increased our daily admission traffic by 54% over last year, and group reservations are up by 77%. Our special events, new simulators, and new exhibits have been packing the hangars with new and returning visitors. This year, we held our first annual Pet Adoption Event at the museum, which brought in hundreds of visitors to see the paws and planes. This year’s Women Take Flight event featured an entire month of activities, including our three speakers: Tammy Denease as famous aviator Bessie Coleman, Amy Comer of Pratt & Whitney, and Ret. CMSgt Doreen Bassingwaithe.

Helicopter Day on Father’s Day weekend brought in visitors of all ages to see and experience our amazing collection of rotary wing aircraft. We can’t wait to learn what the rest of the year has in store for the museum! ✪

> Paws to Planes Rescue.

> Thank yo u to our am azing volunt eers!

John W. Ramsay Research Library B y N e w E n g l a n d A i r M u s e u m V o l u n t e e r S ta f f

W

e are happy to announce that volunteer Tom Morehouse has been appointed as the new

library director, and is a perfect fit for the role. Thanks to the tireless efforts of library staff and volunteers, the entire technical manual collection (more than 6,000 items) is now inventoried, rehoused, and searchable in our computer database. Under the guidance of the museum curator, we have created an up-to-date mission statement and collections policy, and clearly defined workflows for handling donations and evaluating holdings for retention.

We are sad to report that Dave McChesney, our library director, passed away in June of 2022 after a brief battle with cancer. Dave was a valued friend and colleague who served the library for many years. He managed our reorganization and renovation projects and oversaw various cataloguing and indexing operations for library materials.

You will be missed, Dave. ✪

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Great Happenings in our Education Department

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B y A m a n d a G o o d h e a r t P a r k s , P h D , D i r e c t o r o f E d u c at i o n fter more than two years of virtual field trips,

the Education Department was overjoyed to finally welcome school groups back to the museum this school year. In-person field trips were the last of NEAM’s education programs to return postpandemic, joining our ever-popular scout overnights and workshops, travel programs, and public programs. 2022 saw the debut of Aerospace Academy Camp, a statelicensed youth camp. Campers flew in simulators, learned how to rivet with our restoration team, went behind the scenes at Hartford Jet Center at Brainard Airport, and more. Education Department program attendance remains strong, meeting or exceeding pre-pandemic numbers, and participant feedback consistently praises the educational value of our programs. Thanks to an incredibly talented group of museum educators, public programs facilitators, and volunteers, the Education Department continues to fulfill NEAM’s mission of inspiring the next generation of aviators.

Travel with NEAM! NEAM travel programs provide adults with exciting opportunities to explore the history, science and technology of aviation across the country and around the world while supporting the New England Air Museum’s mission. Last fall’s trip to Alexandria, Virginia included a

> Greater Alexandria trip.

full day’s visit to the Smithsonian’s Udvar-Hazy Center. One traveler had this to say of the experience: “The trip was well executed from the time we left the museum until our return. Everything was included and top notch — this trip was worth every penny. We will certainly travel with NEAM again!” This year we’re taking a day trip to Battleship Cove; enjoying a three-day Long Island Getaway with a visit to Cradle of Aviation Museum and Old Westbury Gardens; and spending a week in historic Pennsylvania with stops at Gettysburg, Amish County, the Brandywine Valley, and the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum. Visit our website for details: neam.org/pages/travel-programs ✪

> Aerospace Academy Campers learning how to rivet with our Restoration Team.

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NEW ENGLAND AIR MUSEUM

Museum Collection Visit us in store or online to find presents for aviation-lovers of all ages! > Flight — Preserving America’s Aviation Heritage $49.99 Like Phoenix rising from the ashes, the New England Air Museum has gone from near devastation to restoration many times over. “Flight” is the story of how the discovery of an old flying machine found in a deserted barn evolved into a world class repository of aircraft you won’t see any place else. This is the littleknown story of how they got here.

> Props & Hops Pint Glass $9.99 This frosted pint glass holds 16oz. of your favorite cold beverage!

> Corsair — New England Air Museum T-Shirt $19.99

> LEGO Creator 3in1 Space Shuttle $29.99

Step out in this awesome Corsair front view t-shirt! 100% cotton, black heather with silver lettering New England Air Museum is a hit with all aviation enthusiast.

This action-packed LEGO playset lets kids blast off into space to enjoy 3 different buildand-play experiences.

Ages 6 and up.

> Thames & Kosmos Aircraft Engineer Kit $39.99 Read a fun story of two children taking a trip and build simple aircraft models of the flying machines they encounter along the way. This 73 piece kit and a beautifully illustrated 32-page story book helps lay the groundwork for strong STEM related skills. Ages 3 and up.

> DC3 Desktop Plane Model $99.99 Thousands of DC-3s were produced during WWII and into the 50s. This hand polished aluminum desktop model captures the unmistakable look of this nostaglic aircraft.

Measures 7”H x 10”W x 14”D.

Check out www.neam.org/pages/shop for these items and many more!

Restoration Update

T

he Restoration team has been working hard

on preservations of the museum’s outdoor aircraft.

The Lockheed TV-2 “Shooting Star” underwent a preservation that began in 2020 and was finished this year.

The crew is currently working on several aircraft, including our Grumman E-1B “Tracer.” Soda blasting of the Tracer’s paint was just completed, and the aircraft will be moving inside the restoration hangar soon to begin repainting. The Northrop F-89J “Scorpion” is another current project. It has been repainted, and stencil work has commenced on the aircraft.

Other restoration projects include the K-16B and several of the museum’s historic engines. ✪

> Northrop F-89J “Scorpion” stencil work.

> Grumman E-1B Tracer after soda blasting.

> The recently restored Lockheed TV-2 “Shooting Star”

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NEW ENGLAND AIR MUSEUM

Make An Impact Through Planned Giving

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or 60 years, the New

England Air Museum has been helping to bring the world of aviation and aerospace to generations of families from across the region. At the same time, we are educating and inspiring the region’s youth to understand the history of aviation, and to think about how they can be part of the future of this industry.

As you consider how you can support the New England Air Museum, we ask that you consider a planned gift as a way to ensure that our work continues for at least another 60 years.

Today, we invite you to become a Founding Member of the New England Air Museum Legacy Society by making a pledge to include the museum in your will. Your support for the Museum is of great value to us, and our goal is to make it rewarding to you as well.

Easy Planned Giving Options

A bequest to the New England Air Museum can be part of your estate planning and can include a percentage of your estate or a specific amount determined by you. There are four ways that a bequest can be used to help the museum: 1. An unrestricted bequest can support the museum’s programs, operations, or capital projects.

2. Restricting the bequest to the museum’s permanent endowment will

> Students from Worcester Polytechnic Institute completed a Major Qualifying Project on our CBY-3 Burnelli over the course of three terms, completing modern analysis of this over 75 year old aircraft.

provide an ongoing source of revenue long into the future to ensure that the resources are available to sustain the exhibits and programs that inspire visitors of all ages.

3. Bequests of $25,000 or more can be restricted to a specific purpose, such as educational programs, aircraft restoration and maintenance, or longterm capital projects. The Development staff is always available to discuss how a restricted donation may be structured.

4. Life insurance is an excellent tool for making a charitable gift. For a relatively small annual cost, you can leave a legacy with a benefit far more than what might otherwise be possible. A gift through a life insurance policy may be restricted in any of the ways listed above.

Your professional financial advisor can guide you through this process.

To leave a gift in your will, simply share this sentence below with your attorney or financial planner: “I give and bequeath $____, or % of my estate to the New England Air Museum, located at 36 Perimeter Rd., Windsor Locks, CT, 06096.”

We encourage you to consult your tax attorney for guidance and to properly create your request. All members of the New England Air Museum Legacy Society will be permanently identified on a plaque at the entrance to the museum. ✪ Contact Rick Cleary, VP Development, for more information: rcleary@neam.org

Aerospace Academy Summer Camp

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xplore the history, science, and technology of flight at the New England

Air Museum over the summer with Aerospace Academy Camp! Campers will participate in a range of hands-on activities focusing on the aviation science and history, aircraft restoration, flight sims, drones, and much more! ✪ Visit neam.org/pages/summer-camp to join our mailing list to get early info for 2024 camps!

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DURING THE DAWN OF AVIATION, A VISIONARY WAS BORN.

Coming this fall 2023 discover how a Russian immigrant, armed with genius, will, and determination forever changed the face of aviation.

Please donate and help us bring this exhibit to life. Contact rcleary@neam.org

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NEW ENGLAND AIR MUSEUM

Photo Courtesy Sikorsky Archives

Through the Eyes of Igor Sikorsky: A Visionary’s Legacy and a Future Defined