The Commemorative Air Force, based at Executive Airport in Dallas, has opened an education center that aims to provide hands-on exhibits so kids and adults can learn about the history of aviation and the science and technology that makes powered flight possible.
"We have programs for kids of all ages," says Nancy McGee, CAF vice president of education. "We've got things adults can do. We have corporate team building activities. We have the opportunity for daddy-daughter to rivet a toolbox. We've got college students who can build a device that's both a table and a step-stool they can take off to college. It's an opportunity to build a skill-set but also self-confidence."
The Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center includes hands-on activities, a museum and theater.
"We want to make sure kids can see themselves being successful with people who look like them, so we're showcasing some great stories from the World War Two allied victory," McGee says. "We showcase the Tuskegee Airmen, the Women Airforce Service Pilots, Rosie the Riveter, Texas' involvement in World War II in petroleum production and aircraft building, and the Aztec Eagles."
Tuskegee Airman and Brigadier General Charles McGee, 101, spoke at the opening of the education center Thursday.
"As we look ahead for the good of these United States, for me, I just say life's been a blessing," he says. "I hope each of you realizes there are blessings in your life, too."
Charles McGee urged people to mentor young people, saying the education center was "built for the future of our country." He says the center can help kids learn about aviation.
"For me, life's been a blessing and to approach 102 and still be able to do what I like to do, and that is being able to talk to young people, I'm glad to be able to stand here and tell you, I'm still ready," McGee says.
McGee urged people at the event to mentor a young person, saying he hopes young people will use the "four Ps": perceive, prepare, perform, persevere.
"Hopefully, you'll find something you like to do. I fell in love with aviation," he says. "Hopefully, they will be participating in a way that increases the goodness we would like to see throughout our country."
Nancy McGee, CAF's vice president of education, says stories like Charles McGee's can spark kids' interest in history.
"The aircraft and the artifacts are time machines," she says. "Not only do they trigger those great stories from our veterans, but they also are inspirations for our kids. Every single piece we have in here is a thousand different stories about the people who served. It's an opportunity for kids to see themselves in the eyes of an adult in a different era and have a greater appreciation of that."
She says that knowledge about history can show kids how people from World War II had to solve problems they had not faced before, and that can then show kids the importance of critical thinking, creativity and collaboration.
The Commemorative Air Force has 170 World War II aircraft and says its programs reach 20 million people a year.
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