Most Overlooked WWII Exhibits at the US Air Force Museum

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, houses an incredible collection of aircraft and exhibits that highlight the experiences of those who flew, maintained, and fought against these planes. Here are some of the most intriguing WWII artifacts on display:

1. The Link Trainer – A WWII Flight Simulator

While flight simulators may seem like a modern invention, the Link Trainer was used during WWII to train pilots. This early simulator featured tilting and rolling movements, allowing pilots to practice flying techniques. Interestingly, the first versions of the Link Trainer were sold to amusement parks, which might explain its airplane-like design.

2. Richard “Dick” Bong’s Personal Artifacts

Richard Bong, the top U.S. ace of WWII with 40 aerial victories in his P-38, is honored with an exhibit featuring his M1911 A1 pistol, a clarinet he purchased in Australia, and a custom-tailored Ike-style jacket. The exhibit provides a glimpse into the life of this legendary pilot beyond his combat achievements.

3. Philip Rasmussen’s Pajama-Clad Flight at Pearl Harbor

A display dedicated to Philip Rasmussen features a P-36A Hawk and a mannequin dressed in pajamas. Rasmussen was caught off guard during the attack on Pearl Harbor and had to scramble to his plane in sleepwear. The exhibit even incorporates his correction—that his pajama pant legs were tucked into his boots during the flight.

4. A Piece of the Pearl Harbor Radar Set

A small but historically significant artifact, a cooling fin from the radar set that detected incoming Japanese aircraft before the Pearl Harbor attack, is on display. Unfortunately, the radar warnings were dismissed as misidentified friendly bombers.

5. A WWII Bomb Stencil Used by the 380th Bomb Group

Many bombers in the museum have bomb outlines painted on them to indicate successful missions. The museum showcases an actual stencil used by the 380th Bomb Group on a B-24, providing a tangible link to the crews who carried out these missions.

6. The Doolittle Raid Exhibit

The museum features a B-25B Mitchell bomber in a display dedicated to the famous Doolittle Raid on Tokyo. The exhibit includes a mannequin of Jimmy Doolittle and a recreation of an aircraft carrier deck, representing the USS Hornet from which the raid launched.

7. Personal Mementos from the Doolittle Raiders

Beyond the aircraft, the museum also displays personal items from the Doolittle Raiders. These include a handmade shirt gifted to Charles McClure in China, a jade piece given to Lieutenant Travis Hoover, and a parachute used by Ross Greening, which tells the story of his escape after the raid.