United States Air Force Museum
Since the Wright brothers' first flight, the history of aviation has been
marked by the courage and consuming desire for knowledge which have enabled
mankind in a relatively few years to leave the earth and begin the exploration
of space.
This museum which is meant to preserve the heritage of military aviation, was
built by the Air Force Museum Foundation under the leadership of Eugene W.
Kettering and with the generous voluntary support of U.S. Air Force personnel,
industry, and interested individuals.
On behalf of a grateful nation, I join in dedicating this Air Force Museum to
the American people and to the thousands of airmen whose pioneering spirit,
devotion to duty and love of flying have contributed so much to our progress in
the air and to our happiness on the earth.
Richard Nixon
September 3, 1971