Grumman F9F-5 Panther at the Combat Air Museum in Topeka, Kansas |
The Combat Air Museum is located at the Topeka Regional Airport on Forbes Field in Topeka, Kansas.
The museum is a non-profit institution dedicated to the creation of facilities and resources for the education of the local and regional communities. It is involved in the collection, preservation, conservation and exhibition of aircraft, information, artifacts, technology and art associated with the military aviation history of the United States.
The Combat Air Museum was organized in the Fall of 1976 as a wing of David Tallichet's Yesterday's Air Force. In 1979, the group reorganized under the name of Combat Air Museum and relocated to Hangar #602 at Forbes Field.
The museum has on exhibit over 40 aircraft ranging from the early years of aviation to the present day. Aircraft are on display indoors as well as outdoors. Highlights of the aircraft collection include:
In addition to historic aircraft and rare replicas, the museum houses a number of exhibits, engines, maps, uniforms, photos, noseart, bombsights and more aviation artifacts.
Also offered are a series of education classes, tours, rental facility and a gift shop.
Education is the number one priority of the museum and part of its original charter. Through guided tours, bi-monthly luncheon/lecture series, social events, "Young Aviators" STEM curriculum and vast array of exhibits and dioramas in the museum, visitors of all ages can be inspired and educated in aviation history, technology, art and the 'Cost of Freedom'.
The museum is located at 7016 SE Forbes Avenue, Forbes Field, Topeka Kansas 66619-1444. (see map below).
A small admission fee is charged; parking is free.
Knowledgeable and friendly museum guides are always available for conducted tours of the museum. Organized school tours are encouraged.
For more information and opening hours, phone 785.862.3303, or visit the website of the Combat Air Museum, or Museum's Facebook page
Republic F-84F Thunderstreak, 11659, Buzz Number FS-659 (Photo courtesy of the Combat Air Museum) |
Douglas C-47D Skytrain "Kilroy Is Here" (Photo courtesy of the Combat Air Museum) |
Meyers OTW (Out to Win) Serial #1 (Photo courtesy of the Combat Air Museum) |
Fokker Dr.1 Triplane replica (Photo courtesy of the Combat Air Museum) |