Grissom Air Museum in Peru, Indiana
If you've seen the movie “Top Gun: Maverick,” there are so many references and jokes to be made here. This is, after all, an air museum built near a former active air base. There are four loosely worded references to quotes from “Top Gun: Maverick” contained within this report. Can you find them all? The Grissom Air Museum opened in 1991 and is primarily focused on military aviation during the…
The Grissom Air Museum, situated near a former active air base in Peru, Indiana, opened its doors to the public in 1991. The museum primarily showcases military aviation artifacts from the Cold War era, spanning from 1947 to 1991.
The aircraft on display are on loan from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, and U.S. Navy, with no financial backing from the U.S. Department of Defense. Potential visitors are encouraged to make donations to support the museum's operations.
Originally established by the Navy in 1942 as the Naval Air Reserve Base Peru, the site later became Bunker Hill Air Force Base in 1954 before being renamed Grissom Air Force Base in honor of Indiana astronaut Virgil I. Gus Grissom in 1968. The base operated on active duty until 1994, when it became Grissom Air Reserve Base.
The museum houses a diverse collection of aircraft, ranging from fighters and bombers like the F-14B Tomcat, F-11F-1 Tiger, and MiG-23, to cargo, observation, and refueling aircraft. For an immersive experience, visitors can climb the guard tower and enter several of the aircraft showcased inside the museum.
Inside, there are numerous aircraft that visitors can enter, providing a glimpse into the experiences of pilots and crew members. A dedicated tribute and display paying homage to Gus Grissom is also featured.
Special events are held throughout the year, keeping the focus on the visitors rather than the planes. The outdoor exhibits are accessible year-round, and entry to this area is free. Operating hours vary, so it's advisable to check the museum's website for the most up-to-date information, as the museum is closed from January until the second week of March. Admission costs $10, with discounted rates of $8 for seniors, children aged 6-11, and veterans.
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