Air Force museum wins heritage award Published July 18, 2007 By Sarah Parke National Museum of the U.S. Air Force DAYTON, Ohio (AFPN) -- The National Museum of the United States Air Force recently was awarded the 2007 Air Force Heritage Award by the USAF History and Museums Program for its exhibit, "Return with Honor: American Prisoners of War in Southeast Asia." The exhibit, which opened in May 2006, features reproductions of three Hanoi prison cells with POW mannequins. It also holds nine artifact cases that display items such as North Vietnamese prison guard uniforms, POW uniforms, flags and patches. The exhibit tells the story of the torture, hardships and sacrifices many POWs had to endure during their time of internment, as well as their return back to the United States. "We are very honored that the Air Force recognized our efforts to tell the public about USAF heritage," said retired Maj. Gen. Charles D. Metcalf, the museum director. "Our staff works hard to present in-depth exhibits so visitors can get a real understanding of what Air Force life was like during a particular point in history." The exhibit opening coincided with the arrival of the C-141 Starlifter known as the Hanoi Taxi to the museum last spring. This aircraft airlifted the first American prisoners of war to freedom from Gia Lam Airport in Hanoi, North Vietnam, on Feb. 12, 1973. The USAF History and Museums Program awards are presented each year by the Air Force History Office to recognize commendable work by military and civilian personnel. The Heritage Award recognizes outstanding accomplishments by Air Force History and Museums Program people to foster a better understanding and appreciation of the Air Force, its missions and its accomplishments. A panel of judges ranks submissions on content, utility and presentation. Members of the Air Force History and Museums Program may be nominated. This was the first year the museum was eligible for the award. More information is available on the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Web site, or call 937-255-3286, ext. 302. The National Museum of the United States Air Force is located on Springfield Pike, six miles northeast of downtown Dayton. It is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission and parking are free. Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) Click here to view the comments/letters page