Mid America Air Museum To Celebrate 25th Anniversary

The Mid-America Air Museum will celebrate its 25^th Anniversary September 28^th with a benefit dinner featuring General Larry D. Welch, USAF (Ret.) as the special guest. The museum opened as the Liberal Air Museum in 1988 as part of the City of Liberal Centennial celebration. The museum is now known as the Mid-America Air Museum.

General Welch joined the National Guard in 1951, later enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. He served in training, tactical fighter, bomber, staff and command assignments. His flying career included 84 different types and 101 models of aircraft. During his 37 year career Welch rose through the ranks to General with numerous command assignments. Welch retired from active duty as Air Force Chief of Staff, the senior uniformed officer in the Air Force. Following retirement Welch served as President and CEO of the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) and has served on several congressional commissions addressing national security issues. Welch is a former Liberal resident and Liberal High School graduate.

The anniversary event sponsored by the MAAM Foundation scheduled for September 28 will be a benefit for the museum. The Foundation supports museum programs and exhibits such as the robotics program and the recent dinosaur exhibit. In addition to programs and exhibits, proceeds from the event will also go for museum facility upgrades and enhancements. The special event is open for anyone interested in supporting the Foundation and the museum. Tickets will be going on sale the first of September. For additional information contact the MAAM Foundation at [email protected] or PO Box 2585, Liberal, KS 67905.