WEST CHESTER, PA — The American Helicopter Museum and Education Center (AHMEC) is set to debut a permanent exhibit titled “On the Wings of Freedom: Black Leaders in Aviation” on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 11 a.m. Timed to commemorate Juneteenth, the exhibit honors the remarkable contributions of nine Black Americans to aviation history and aims to inspire future generations of aviators. Representatives from the Greater Philadelphia Chapter Tuskegee Airmen will attend the grand opening.
The exhibit highlights the achievements and challenges faced by aviation trailblazers such as Jeanine Menze, La’Shanda Hawkins, Katherine Johnson, Elridge Johnson, Robert Farris, James Casher, Clyde Romero, Cornelius Coffey, and Willa Brown. Through first-person narratives and biographical insights, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of their careers, the institutional barriers they overcame, and the role of mentorship and community in their success.
“This exhibit not only celebrates the achievements of these individuals but also underscores the importance of mentorship in inspiring future generations to aim higher and reach farther,” the museum emphasized in its announcement.
Funded in part by a Juneteenth mini-grant from the Chester County Community Foundation, the exhibit aligns with the West Chester PA Branch NAACP’s “Celebrate 365” initiative, ensuring that the significance of Juneteenth is recognized year-round. By spotlighting Black Americans’ contributions to aviation history, “On the Wings of Freedom” becomes a permanent addition to the museum’s collection, fostering awareness and inclusivity in the narrative of aviation.
AHMEC is a leading institution in preserving and celebrating the history of rotary flight. Located in West Chester, PA, the museum houses one of the largest collections of rotorcraft in the world. It is committed to educating the public on the innovation, history, and cultural impact of helicopters, all within the birthplace of the rotary flight industry.
Residents, aviation enthusiasts, and families are encouraged to attend the unveiling and explore this powerful celebration of aviation history and heritage.
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