Thursday, October 2, 2008

Visit the Mighty Eighth


MIGHTY EIGHTH AIR FORCE MUSEUM

Experience the excitement of a World War II combat mission. See what it was like to be a U.S. Airman shot down over enemy territory and how “helpers” in local villages helped these airmen escape and evade the enemy. Explore the small house that shows how these same “helpers” helped U.S. as well as English airmen escape the enemy, even at great risk to their own well-being and safety.


It’s all here and more at the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum in Pooler, GA, just minutes from downtown Savannah. The Museum is certified by the State of Georgia as a Center for Character Education and also offers several programs that qualify for Scout badges and certificates.


Offering ample, free parking, the Museum’s other benefits include onsite dining with a kid-friendly menu; group and school tour special rates; and affordable lodging is located within walking distance.


More importantly, the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum is a treasure that offers glimpses of the past and a sense of what it’s like to be a true patriot. It all began back in 1942, just weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Eighth Air Force was activated in Savannah, GA and ultimately earned its place in history as an important strike element in World War II and remains an active force today in Air Combat Command.


Since opening its doors in 1996, the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum has honored the Mighty Eighth’s proud legacy by preserving the courage, character and patriotism embodied by the men and women of the Eighth Air Force from WWII to the present. Each year more than 15,000 students visit the Museum on field trips and engage in a variety of activities. Activities include guided tours, hands-on workshops and a general introduction to the world of aviation.


A Museum favorite is the Mission Experience where guests “fly” a bombing mission on a B-17 over Germany. Additional features include the newly renovated Escape and Evasion exhibit as well as exhibitions of the Fly Girls; Tuskegee Airmen; English countryside chapel and Memorial Gardens; gift shop, art gallery; 7,000-volume library and archives rich with thousands of oral histories, period photographs, and war-time journals; and banquet and meeting facilities.

Ticket prices are $10/adult; $9 senior, $6 for children 6-12 years old (children under 6 admitted free); and discounted group tour rates are available. Located at 175 Bourne Avenue in Pooler, the Museum is just minutes from Savannah via I-95/exit 102. The Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum is open seven days a week, 9AM-5PM except New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.


For more information contact (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org