About Us

National Museum of the United States Air Force

Overhead view of Presidential Aircraft at the museum.

Presidential aircraft at National Museum of the United States Air Force

Welcome to the official website of the National Museum of the United States Air Force -- the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world -- located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, near Dayton, Ohio. This site is provided as a public service by the National Museum of the United States Air Force, Public Affairs Division.

Use the top navigation bar to find information about planning your visit as well as events and activities taking place at the museum.

Meet the Director

Learn about museum divisions.

The National Museum of the United States Air Force collects, researches, conserves, interprets and presents the Air Force’s history, heritage, and traditions, as well as today’s mission to fly, fight, win … air power anytime, anywhere to a global audience through engaging exhibits, educational outreach, special programs, and the stewardship of the national historical collection. With our educational outreach, we motivate, educate, and inspire youth interest in the United States Air Force (USAF) and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The statutory duties delegated by the Secretary of the Air Force (SECAF) are accomplished on behalf of the American People.

We are the keepers of their stories™

Video by NMUSAF PA

Museum Audio Tour 10b: Air Power Gallery: Tuskegee Airmen

National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

Dec. 31, 1969 | 1:17

The aircraft considered by many to be the best fighter during World War II was the P-51 Mustang. With its long range and high altitude capabilities, the P-51 was capable of accompanying bombers all the way to Berlin and back. This aircraft would eventually become the plane of choice for the Tuskegee Airmen. Just behind the B-24 you will find an exhibit dedicated to these courageous black aviators. During World War Two, the military was racially segregated. Reflecting American society at the time, most black troops were restricted to labor battalions and other support positions. An experiment with the U.S. Army Air Forces showed that given equal opportunity and training, African Americans could fly in, command and support combat units as well as anyone. The Tuskegee Airmen served with distinction in combat and directly contributed to the eventual integration of the armed services, with the U.S. Air Force leading the way. For more insight, visit the Carney Auditorium portion of the pod map and listen to (V166) Integration of the Air Force: The Early Years by retired lieutenant colonels James Harvey III (the third), and Harry Steward. Further information on the Integration of the Air Force can be found in an exhibit just before exiting this gallery.

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heritagetourmuseumTuskegeeaircrafthistoryWWIIWorld War IIaviationairplanesBlack History