Arkansas Air & Military Museum Celebrates 80th Anniversary of Historic Hangar
The Arkansas Air & Military Museum marked a significant milestone on May 12, 1944, when the Falcon Naval Base Hangar 1080 was first erected. This iconic edifice has stood the test of time, and now, exactly eight decades later, the museum is celebrating its rich history and contributions to the world of aviation and military heritage.
For the better part of a century, Hangar 1080 has served several purposes. Initially built to house the U.S. Navy’s flight training operations, it later transitioned into a hub for the Arkansas Air National Guard. In 1986, it was meticulously restored and repurposed as the Arkansas Air & Military Museum, chronicling the state’s military and aviation history.
To commemorate this momentous occasion, the museum is planning a year-long celebration, featuring an array of events, exhibits, and guest speakers. The festivities will kick off with an open house, offering visitors the rare opportunity to explore the hangar and marvel at the eclectic collection of military aircraft, vehicles, and artifacts. The museum will also debut special exhibits focusing on pivotal historical events, individual military service stories, and the role the hangar played through the decades.
- The museum plans to release a comprehensive catalog detailing the history of Hangar 1080 and its evolution into the Arkansas Air & Military Museum.
- Visitors can look forward to hands-on experiences, interactive displays, and immersive talks from military historians and veterans.
- The museum will partner with local schools to develop educational programs centered around the hangar’s history and its relevance to the region.
Over the coming year, the museum invites faithful patrons and new visitors alike to partake in these commemorative events. By doing so, it seeks to not only honor the hangar’s rich past but also educate and inspire future generations about the importance of military service and aviation in Arkansas.
