OSI exhibit opens at Air Force museum

  • Published
  • By Sarah Greiner
  • National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Public Affairs
DAYTON, Ohio (AFPN) --  An exhibit highlighting the Air Force's criminal investigative service is open to the public at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force here.

"Eyes of the Eagle: The Air Force Office of Special Investigations" exhibit joins the museum's permanent displays in the Cold War Gallery.

The exhibit officially opened April 20 during an unveiling ceremony.

Founded in 1948, OSI agents have played an important role in protecting the Air Force and the nation as it confronts a variety of issues such as murder, burglary and theft to electronic assaults on defense computer systems. OSI has a wide range of highly trained specialists, including forensic scientists, computer experts, behavioral specialists and other analysts to combat these threats.

"OSI has a proud heritage of accomplishment that spans the globe, encompassing generations and entire eras," said Brig. Gen. Eric Patterson, OSI commander. "One of the most significant of those eras, in terms of time and what was at stake, is the Cold War. OSI was on the front lines of this prolonged engagement, and this exhibit does a good job of capturing the essence of that experience and the contribution made to national security."

The exhibit highlights notable OSI tasks, especially those during the Cold War era, which included counterintelligence, responding to espionage and investigating terrorist attacks. Several items used by the OSI agents are featured in the display, including a disguise kit, surveillance cameras, electronic listening devices and a wristwatch modified to act as a radio transmitter.