'Where Eagles Rest': from an early Wright brothers military plane to the latest F-22, the U.S. Air Force Museum at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, spans the spectacular history of military aviation with grand style

VFW Magazine, August, 2004 by Robert Widener

A short one-hour drive north of Cincinnati is the world-renowned U.S. Air Force Museum. For anyone attending VFW's 105th National Convention in August, the trip to Dayton is well worth the time.

The world's largest and oldest military aviation museum, the place "Where Eagles Rest," as it is nicknamed, houses nearly 350 aircraft. It is an aviation buff's dream come true. The Air Power Gallery contains some 60 restored WWII planes alone. But coverage is comprehensive, spanning WWI through the Persian Gulf War of 1991 and beyond. Furthermore, a 200,000 square-foot Cold War Gallery opened in 2003.

Air Force sacrifices are honored on these grounds, too. The adjacent Memorial Park features 400 statuary memorials, plaques and trees. Also stop by the National Aviation Hall of Fame to see individual airmen remembered.

The museum is rated the Midwest's largest free tourist attraction. With 17 acres of indoor exhibits and displays, it is no wonder that 1.2 million people visit annually. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with parking and admission free. Just follow the signs six miles north east of Dayton for the exit off I-675. Tel.: (937) 255-3286.