2013 AnnuAl RepoRt - Naval Aviation Museum Foundation

2013 Annual Report
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N a v a l A v i a t i o n M u s e u m F o u n d a t i o n, I n c. — 2 0 1 3 A n n u a l R e p o r t
Board of Directors/Trustees
President George H.W. Bush
Honorary Chairman of the Board
Board of Directors
Mr. Patrick J. Finneran Jr.
Chairman of the Board
ADM Mark P. Fitzgerald, USN (Ret)
Vice Chairman of the Board
LtGen Duane D. Thiessen, USMC (Ret)
President and CEO
The Honorable Dionel M. Aviles
Mr. Charles Thomas Burbage
The Honorable Lacey A. Collier
LtGen Frederick McCorkle, USMC (Ret)
Mr. David Oreck
Mr. Durwood “Skip” Ringo
VADM James M. Zortman, USN (Ret)
Board of Trustees
VADM Michael L. Bowman, USN (Ret)
Chairman of the Board Emeritus
VADM Gerald L. Hoewing, USN (Ret)
President and CEO Emeritus
ADM Stanley R. Arthur, USN (Ret)
RADM John E. Boyington Jr., USN (Ret)
Mr. William Pat Brewster
Ms. Nina Hess Campbell
CAPT Eugene A. Cernan, USN (Ret)
Vice President
CAPT Charles E. Ellis Jr., JAGC, USN (Ret)
Secretary
RADM George M. Furlong Jr., USN (Ret)
Vice President
RADM H.E. Grant, JAGC, USN (Ret)
Mr. O. Lewis Humphrey
RADM Gary R. Jones, USN (Ret)
ADM Timothy J. Keating, USN (Ret)
ADM Robert J. Kelly, USN (Ret)
CAPT Thomas C. King, USCG (Ret)
Mr. Richard M. Kleberg III
RADM Frederick L. Lewis, USN (Ret)
VADM John A. Lockard, USN (Ret)
Gen Robert Magnus, USMC (Ret)
VADM Michael D. Malone, USN (Ret)
RADM James I. Maslowski, USN (Ret)
VADM Walter B. Massenburg, USN (Ret)
VADM John J. Mazach, USN (Ret)
Mr. J. Collier Merrill
The Honorable Jeff Miller
Mr. Arthur D. Miltenberger
CDR W. Lincoln Mossop Jr., USNR (Ret)
Mr. Eric Nickelsen
Gen W.L. Nyland, USMC (Ret)
Mr. John Osterweil
Mr. James W. Pellerin
The Honorable B.J. Penn
Mr. Michael Petters
Mr. Larry M. Post
VADM William E. Ramsey, USN (Ret)
CAPT E. Earle Rogers II, USN (Ret)
Vice President
Ms. Debbie Rub
Mr. Timothy Russell
Mr. Ray D. Russenberger
Mr. Kent Schien
ADM Leighton W. Smith Jr., USN (Ret) (KBE)
Dr. Richard G. Sugden
Mr. Bobby Switzer
Mr. Andrew C. Taylor
Mr. E. Duke Vincent
Ms. Michele R. Weslander-Quaid
W.H.F. Wiltshire, Esq., CDR USNR (Ret)
Ms. Barbara Woodbury
Vision and Mission Statement
The vision of the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation is to inspire, engage and educate the public.
The mission is to be the best in the world, self-sustaining Foundation that engages the public by supporting and
promoting the National Naval Aviation Museum experience and Naval Aviation, as well as conducting and promoting educational programs.
N a v a l A v i a t i o n M u s e u m F o u n d a t i o n, I n c. — 2 0 1 3 A n n u a l R e p o r t
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Chairman’s Report
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e sincerely appreciate the contributions and dedication of our President and CEO Emeritus, Vice Admiral Gerald
Hoewing. His vision, leadership and passion for Naval Aviation built the solid foundation we have today. We are delighted
to have as his successor, Lieutenant General Duane Thiessen,
who has been on board since June. His dynamic leadership
and broad vision will move us forward both in supporting the
National Museum of Naval Aviation and the National Flight
Academy. Lieutenant General Thiessen and his team are working with the leaders of aviation industry, private donors, contributors and local, state and federal leaders gaining support of
this national treasure and its mission.
The Foundation protects and preserves the heritage of Naval
Aviation through its effort of engaging the public and in particular our nation’s youth educating them on the sacrifices of
Americans throughout history. The rare aircraft and dynamic
exhibits on display portray the poignant stories and sacrifices and serve as reminder to all who visit
that freedom isn’t free. The aircraft in this Museum tell the story of this nation for the last 100 plus
years. I thank the staffs of the National Naval Aviation Museum and the Foundation for all they do
to bring our heritage to life every day.
Looking to the future, the Foundation is a strong supporter of science, technology, engineering
and math (STEM) initiatives. The National Flight Academy continues to develop the ability to further STEM education. Ambition, a virtual aircraft carrier, is a unique, immersive educational facility geared toward students in grades 7 through 12 using aviation applied principles as a teaching
method to encourage students to enter into the technological fields. We are making great strides in
becoming the premier STEM education destination.
2013 presented economic challenges, however, the team attacked the strategic plan with renewed energy to achieve the vision of support for our incredible Museum and a positive trajectory
for the National Flight Academy.
Patrick J. Finneran Jr.
Chairman of the Board
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N a v a l A v i a t i o n M u s e u m F o u n d a t i o n, I n c. — 2 0 1 3 A n n u a l R e p o r t
President’s Report
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013 marked the 50th anniversary of the National
Naval Aviation Museum; it was a year of significant
milestones and achievements. The generous support of
all those who participated allowed your Naval Aviation
Museum Foundation to continue the support that we were
created to do. Thanks to contributions of our Corporate
Alliance, Benefactors’ Circle, Wings of Gold, the annual
giving programs and Foundation membership, another
year of financial support for restoration, preservation and
educational programs was accomplished.
Our Museum featured newly restored exhibits like the
F6F Hellcat and new presentations with interactive displays.
The Blue Angels 4D Theater is proving to be very popular
with our guests. The 2013 attendance and support for
the National Flight Academy eclipsed the opening year
attendance of 2012. The vision of providing a high impact,
positive learning experience in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) is real and
available today.
The contributions and support from all our supporters who share the vision of our Museum
and National Flight Academy made it happen. Chief among our individual donors for 2013, were
Mr. and Mrs. Tom Benson, Mr. Richard C. Avery, Mr. and Mrs. David I. Oreck, Mr. Henry Britt
Landrum Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Ashley D. Pace Jr., Captain James L. Newman Jr., USNR (Ret), Mr.
and Mrs. Andrew C. Taylor and Dr. Nancy Maloy. Topping our Corporate Alliance, members
included The Boeing Company, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation,
the Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust, Escambia County Board of County Commissioners, Delta Air
Lines Inc., Millennium Laboratories and USAA. We are very grateful to these and to everyone who
contributed in support; you are the ones who make this effort a success and a national treasure of
Naval Aviation history.
One of our Naval history heroes flew into the sunset on 2013. On October 13, Astronaut Scott
Carpenter took off for the last time. The very first artifact given to our Naval Aviation Museum was
Scott Carpenter’s Wings of Gold. He blazed a heroic path and a courageous example in the halls of
great Americans.
As I look forward, I am optimistic about our Foundation’s efforts and our ability to meet mission.
Membership is increasing slowly but steadily and support levels are steady as well. 2014 will see the
return of the Blue Angels practice shows here at Pensacola which jumps our Museum attendance
in very dramatic ways. With increased attendance comes increased support for our Museum. Our
National Flight Academy is gathering more and more corporate scholarship support which also
adds tremendous momentum to our efforts, and enrollment for next year is well underway and
we expect to exceed this year’s attendance. Next year we will celebrate 100 years of Naval Aviation
training here at NAS Pensacola. It is a banner opportunity to celebrate and an opportunity we will
take advantage of.
On behalf of the Foundation, the Museum, and the National Flight Academy, we thank you for
your continued commitment in helping preserve the history and heritage of Naval Aviation.
Duane D. Thieissen
Lieutenant General, USMC (Ret)
President and CEO
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Year 2013 Highlights
January
• Discovery Saturday: Retired Colonel John Orr of the
Canadian Royal Navy presented the History of the
Sea King — the development of the anti-submarine
helicopter.
• Snowbird Fly In at Museum.
February
• Glenn Miller Orchestra concert.
• IMAX® Breakfast and a movie every Tuesday in February.
March
• Discovery Saturday: Mr. Chip Yarbrough, National
Flight Academy program director, and Dr. Dave
Dawson, University of West Florida & National
Flight Academy Chief Learning Agent, presented the
National Flight Academy’s unique educational and
professional development programs that are revolutionizing the way we learn.
• Blue Angels signed autographs in Museum on most
Wednesdays. The team was grounded for most of the
2013 season due to budget restrictions.
• National Flight Academy and University of West
Florida signed a partnership agreement.
April
• Two of the surviving members of the Doolittle
Raiders visited the National Naval Aviation Museum.
2013 marked the 71st and final reunion of this heroic
group.
May
• Discovery Saturday: 98 year old retired Marine
Colonel Justin “Mac” Miller shared his first-hand
experiences during World War II.
June
• Discovery Saturday: Aviation book author Mr. Brad
Elward discussed his book S-3 Viking – In Action. A
book signing followed the presentation.
• The National Naval Aviation turned 50 years old.
• Fifth year of Summer Day Camp held at Museum
comprising of eight weekly sessions and 221 students
began and ran through first week in August.
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July
• Discovery Saturday: Space Day featured family-fun
activities including Stomp Rockets and samples of
astronaut foods.
• The IMAX® Naval Aviation Memorial theatre
celebrated 17 years of operation.
• Delta Airlines sponsored a week at the National
Flight Academy for students in grades 7-12.
August
• Discovery Saturday: 88 year old Helga Hofmeier
Edmunds shared her first-hand experiences growing
up as a German in Japan during World War II.
Following the presentation, Mrs. Hofmeier Edmunds
held a book signing of her book, Helga: A Memoir of
Privilege, War and Family.
• The Flight Adventure Deck reopened to 6th, 7th and
8th grade students for the school year 2013-2014.
September
• On the anniversary of 9/11, a ceremony was held at
the National Naval Aviation Museum.
October
• 15th Annual Halloween event.
• Museum received mock-up of Northrop Grumman’s
X-47B, an exact replica of the unmanned aircraft
currently being tested by the U.S. Navy.
November
• Discovery Saturday:
• Museum opened a new attraction: the Blue Angels
4D Theater.
• Museum dedicated new bronze exhibit, Homecoming,
a sculpture by Robert L. Rasmussen.
December
• On the anniversary of Pearl Harbor, a ceremony at
the National Naval Aviation Museum honored World
War II veterans.
• Museum rolled out the newly restored F6F Hellcat
sponsored by the Jack Taylor family.
N a v a l A v i a t i o n M u s e u m F o u n d a t i o n, I n c. — 2 0 1 3 A n n u a l R e p o r t
The National Naval Aviation Museum
and
The Naval Aviation Museum Foundation
S
ince the establishment by the Secretary of the Navy in 1962, the National Naval Aviation Museum, Navy operated, owned
and funded, has continued to pursue its mission “to select, collect, preserve and display appropriate memorabilia representative
of the development, growth and rich heritage of Naval Aviation.” From its humble beginnings in an 8,500 square foot building,
with only a half-dozen aircraft, 100 scale models, Scott Carpenter’s Aurora 7 Mercury capsule and his Naval Aviator wings that
traveled into space in 1962, the National Naval Aviation Museum has become one of the three largest aviation museums in the
world. With an internal area of nearly 355,000 square feet, and 150 restored aircraft on display, today’s Museum plays host to
almost a million visitors per year, and is ranked among Florida’s top 10 attractions by the state’s division of tourism as well as
being rated by Tripadvisor as the number one Florida Gulf Coast attraction. The Museum celebrated 50 years this year.
The Naval Aviation Museum Foundation, sanctioned by the Secretary of the Navy, was founded in 1966, and incorporated
under Florida law, as a nonprofit, educational organization with tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal
Revenue Code. As an economic engine for the Museum, the Foundation has raised more than $86 million, in support of capital
development and Museum projects. Thanks to corporate donors, state and local grants and an active membership program, the
Foundation has provided the impetus for the spectacular growth of the Museum. The Foundation’s latest capital fundraising
campaign was to finance the Phase IV expansion of the Museum — The National Flight Academy and Hangar Bay One.
“Dynamic” best describes the last 50 years of Museum growth, and our plans for the future retain that spirit.
The Foundation’s membership program continues to reflect interest in, and support for, our efforts and almost 500 new
members were added during the year. The steadfast loyalty and support of our members has been gratifying, and represents
a significant element in support of the Museum. While many members were associated with Naval Aviation, or are currently
serving, others come from varied backgrounds, military and civilian, sharing a strong interest and enthusiasm for not only Naval
Aviation, but aviation history in general.
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2013 Financial Matters
T
o place the financial picture of the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation, Inc. in perspective, it is useful
to note its organization and relationship to the Navy-owned Aviation Museum.
The initial Museum building, completed in 1975, and all subsequent additions, were constructed with
funds raised privately by the Foundation, then formally gifted to the Secretary of the Navy. A modest
annual budget from the U.S. Navy provides for maintenance and security, while the Foundation operates
internal cash generating activities, subject to approval by the Museum Director (a Civil Service employee
of the Navy).
Additionally, with contributions and generated income, the Foundation provides direct support to the
Museum in the form of material and labor. Annual gifts include capital improvements, new exhibits, aircraft
restoration and a variety of innovations to expand and improve the Museum.
Retained balances are invested in a conservative portfolio under the guidance of a Trustee-monitored
Investment Committee. An endowment for perpetuation of the Foundation’s mission of supporting the
Museum has grown from $6.6 million at the end of 2012 to $6.9 million, with a goal of reaching $100
million.
Where the Money Goes
Direct Support — $1.3 Million
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Volunteer Program
Aircraft Collection Support
Aircraft Restoration
Aircraft Relocation
Janitorial Services/Housekeeping
Exhibit Development
Exhibit Operation
Flight Line Bus Tours
Library Operations
Miscellaneous Expense
Indirect Support —
­ $0.7 Million
•
•
•
•
•
•
Marketing
Blue Angel Airshow Practices Support
Visit Florida Welcome Centers Aircraft Upkeep
Event Scheduling and Services
Special Commemorative Event
Flight Adventure Deck
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T
o financially segregate the development/membership/education functions of the Foundation from the business endeavors conducted in the Museum building, as well as the National Flight Academy, the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation, Inc.
has two wholly-owned subsidiaries chartered as Limited Liability Companies: the Foundation Museum Support Company,
LLC and the National Flight Academy, LLC. The following charts illustrate the financial performance of each of the three
entities, concluded by a fourth chart showing the total combined assets of the Foundation and its subsidiaries.
Contributed Foundation Revenue
Includes all funds raised for membership, education and other projects in support of the Museum.
Investment Income • 50%
$1.6 million
Development • 19%
$0.67 million
Contribution • 16%
$0.5 million
Planned Giving • 9%
$0.3 million
Memberships • 6%
$0.2 million
Museum Support LLC
Conducts revenue-producing business activities, principally the Flight Deck Store, the IMAX® Theatre, Motion-Based Simulator, MaxFlight Simulators and a share of profit from the Cubi Bar Café. After covering its own operating expenses, profit is
applied to defray Foundation overhead, and remaining proceeds are gifted to the Museum.
Operating Revenues of $4.6 Million Produced $1.3 Net
Museum Store
$0.8 million
Museum Attractions (IMAX® Theatre,
Motion-Based and MaxFlight Simulators)
$0.4 million
Cubi Bar Café
$0.1 million
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Year 2011 Finances
Operating Revenues of $3.2 Million Generated
National Flight Academy LLC
2013 Funds Raised: $1.6 Million
Total Assets of $9.5 million at the end of the year.
Contributions • 75%
$1.2 million
Year 2011 Finances
Program Revenue • 25%
$0.4 million
Combined Assets
Year Ended December 31, 2013
Total assets $23.6 million. Predominantly cash and cash equivalents.
Investments • 49%
$11.6 million
Net Property & Equipment • 29%
$6.8 million
Pledges & Accounts Receivable • 13%
$3.1 million
Cash & Equivalents • 7%
$1.6 million
Museum Store Inventory • 1%
$0. 4 million
Other Assets • 1%
$0.1 million
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Foundation Fund Generators
Cubi Bar Café …
In sync with the Museum’s collection of aircraft
and artifacts that chronicle the rich history of U.S. Naval Aviation, the Museum’s
Cubi Bar Café is also an exhibit. Opened in 1996, the restaurant’s décor and layout
duplicates the bar area of the famous Cubi Point Officers’ Club that was a major
source of enjoyment for Navy and Marine Corps squadrons, ships and units as they
passed into the Western Pacific. For almost 40 years, the club was a marvelous mix
of American efficiency and Filipino hospitality. When the club was closed in 1992,
the many plaques – more than 1,000 in number – that adorned the walls of the club
as tokens of thanks, were packed and sent to the Museum, to be placed as they were
when the Cubi Club was closed.
In 2013, the Cubi Bar Café offered 101,657 hungry visitors an opportunity to
peruse a piece of Naval Aviation history. For many, it was a trip down memory lane.
The IMAX® Experience …
4,644
Opened in July 1996, the IMAX®
Naval Aviation Memorial Theatre represents a significant element in the Museum’s
development. Primarily dedicated to the large screen, the 534-seat theatre also has
a multimedia, multipurpose capability and has been the site for a broad range of
presentations, from lectures to choral groups to ballet.
IMAX® operations commenced with the showing of the classic film To Fly!
until the introduction of the Museum’s flagship film, The Magic of Flight, made its
national and international premiere in November 1996. Since then, the theatre has
been a site for several other simultaneous film premieres and is recognized in the
large screen industry as one of the top two theatres in the United States.
Due to contract negotiations and limited space in the projection booth, no more
than four different films are shown in addition to The Magic of Flight with seven
daily showings, providing Museum visitors with a greater selection. Showing five
different films in one day is quite a demanding task requiring timed precision and
operation. This is a first for a theatre of our design. The theatre celebrated its 17th
year of operation in July 2013. At the end of 2013, 114,134 film-goers enjoyed the
theater as part of their Museum experience. This brings theatre attendance to more
than 3.5 million since its opening.
The Flight Deck Store …
Long a principal source of
Foundation revenues, the Flight deck Store has grown over the years to its 2013
level as a $2.2 million retail operation. It provides the Museum visitor with a full
array of items, from memorabilia to models, items for the home, jewelry and
medium to high-end garments that feature upscale apparel brand names, much of
it in the aviation genre. Online and phone order services make shopping convenient
and represent an increasing segment of store business.
Simulators:
MaxFlight Simulators … This exhibit challenges visitors to experience the
thrill of air-to-air combat and stunt flying, combined with fully interactive 360
degree pitch and roll technology and offered in 2D or 3D. Visitors have complete
control of these one-of-a-kind simulators by using a joy stick and throttle and
can experience multiple scenarios with dozens of different aircraft. During 2013,
19,017 visitors took this exciting challenge.
Motion-Based Flight Simulator … 74,841 Museum visitors took a thrilling
ride during 2013. This attraction is a multi-sensory experience that combines a
movie-like audiovisual presentation using a high-definition projection screen and
surround-sound with motion in a fully enclosed capsule.
Blue Angels 4D Theater … This attraction opened in November
2013. Located in Hangar Bay One, visitors will enjoy exciting, action-packed aerial maneuvers with the Blue Angels. 4,644 Museum visitors experienced this ride
in 2013.
Foundation Education Programs
Naval Aviation Symposium …
Started in 1987, the
nationally-renowned two-day symposium series averages 2,500 guests annually.
Attendees include numerous active and retired flag and general officers, executives
from the aerospace industry, local aviation instructors and students, as well as aviation
enthusiasts from around the nation.
The Foundation’s distinguished guests speakers have included former President
George Bush; Governor Jeb Bush; Senators John Warner, Jake Garn, Connie Mack
and John McCain; Secretaries of the Navy Lehman, Webb, Garrett Danzig and Winter;
Under Secretaries of the Navy Hultin and Pirie; Assistant Secretary of the Navy (I&E)
Penn; Chiefs of Naval Operations Admirals Boorda and Johnson; Vice Chiefs of Naval
Operations Admirals Fallon and Mullen; the Commandant of the Marine Corps,
General Jones; Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Nyland, astronaut,
Mr. Neil Armstrong and Admiral Timothy J. Keating, USN (Ret).
Flight to Excellence Program …
This program
incorporates educational large-format, IMAX® films with accompanying teachers
guides. Using the guides as both a pre- and post-visit resource, teachers are able to build
upon the Museum experience to reinforce required core competencies in the areas of
science and mathematics. Since 1996, more than 433,974 school children and teachers
have participated in the Flight to Excellence program including 16,855 students during
the 2012-2013 academic year.
Flight Adventure Deck …
The Flight Adventure Deck
(FAD) program is an ongoing partnership with the Escambia and Santa Rosa County
School Districts, inviting resident teachers on special assignment to administer the
curriculum. Built at a cost of $2 million in private funding, this 9,000 square-foot wing
features 38 interactive devices, 11 educational kiosks, an interactive wind tunnel and
four computer-based flight simulators that teach middle and high school students how
science, technology, engineering and mathematical (STEM) principles are applied in
aviation. Since it opened its doors in 1996, more than 74,000 middle school students have
participated in the FAD, including 5,363 in 2013, despite losing 13 days in October
due to the government shutdown. In addition to the students, the Flight Adventure
Deck has trained more than 707 teachers to participate in the program. Currently, the
FAD addresses 38% of the Sunshine State Standards benchmarks in science for sixth
through eighth grade students and 57% of the mathematics benchmarks. Measures
of effectiveness based on pre- and post-testing of students participating in the FAD
program show a 74.9% increase in subject matter knowledge. This concept has
since been exported to students and teachers across the state through the Interactive
Technology Center.
Interactive Technology Center …
Completed
through a $500,000 grant from the state of Florida, the Interactive Technology Center
(ITC) is an addition to our current facilities that serves as both an educational outreach
for the existing FAD program as well as the prototype for the National Flight Academy.
The ITC incorporates distance learning capabilities within the classroom and allows a
portion of the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) curriculum
to be transmitted throughout the State and, ultimately, the nation. The ITC houses
video, image and learning systems required to send and receive instructional media,
and provides the hardware and technology necessary to broadcast the curriculum as a
live, real-time class or to be archived for viewing at a later date.
Inspiration. Guaranteed.
T
The National Flight Academy’s Ambition
he National Flight Academy (NFA) offers one of the most exciting and immersive learning experiences
in the world — inspiring 7th–12th graders to take a serious interest in science, technology, engineering and
mathematics (STEM) in an aviation-themed adventure aboard a virtual aircraft carrier, Ambition (CVT11). Since its commissioning in May 2012, the National Flight Academy has hosted more than 2,000 young
people from more than 40 states and three foreign countries in our Deployment programs. This 6-day program is held onboard Ambition where everyone eats on the Mess Deck, sleeps in junior officer staterooms,
plan missions in the Joint Intelligence Centers and Joint Operations Centers, and executes missions in the
30 networked simulators located in the Hangar Bay. These simulators represent the most extensive network
outside of the Department of Defense and are utilized by participants for non-combat, humanitarian missions such as search and rescue, disaster relief, air racing and fire-fighting.
This fully immersive and visually stimulating venue provides the rumble of the ship’s “engines,” the sound
of flight operations on the “roof,” and scenically treated bulkheads as 1MC announcements call the crew to
action using state-of-the-art flight simulation technology.
Divided into squadrons (usually groups of 12), each team is led by accredited teachers who facilitate the
planning and execution of the missions pulling STEM learning points from the story. The students love it!
Plus, they are learning not just STEM principles, but also workforce readiness skills such as team-building,
leadership, strategic planning, chaos management and asset awareness. The National Flight Academy’s education partner, the University of West Florida, measures each student’s growth during their week onboard
Ambition and the findings have shown that the average student’s STEM knowledge increases 10% while
they are in the program. Graduates are proven to show increased knowledge of STEM tenets along with improvement in 21st century skills like critical thinking, problem solving, communication and teamwork. Attendees have told the NFA that they have learned more mathematics and science during their stint aboard
Ambition than they did all year in school.
In 2013, the National Flight Academy began offering programs to students not yet old enough to attend
a Deployment, or are simply looking for a more condensed program; for students in grades 5th–12th, a
3-day Cruise is now available. This program has been successful in providing groups from private schools
as well as public schools outside of the immediate Pensacola vicinity the opportunity to experience Ambition during the weeks outside of the summer courses. This year Ambition hosted more than 121 students in
the Cruise program. Also offered was a one-day Adventure which has been successful in providing merit
badges to various Boy Scout groups, with more than 100 students participating in this program for 2013.
These various programs are really picking up steam as more groups hear about our incredible courses.
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N a v a l A v i a t i o n M u s e u m F o u n d a t i o n, I n c. — 2 0 1 3 A n n u a l R e p o r t
Inspiration. Guaranteed.
Another exciting addition to the National Flight Academy’s repertoire commencing in 2014, is the Naval
Aviator Experience (NAE). This one-day Embark is for adults and is the opportunity to learn everything it
takes to become a Naval Aviator. Small groups of 6–24 persons spend the day wearing flight suits, learning
about SERE, survival, the components of parachutes and ejection seats — all within the newly constructed
Paraloft Learning Lab onboard Ambition. In addition, they fly a fun mission involving a beach flyby, aerobatics and landing on an aircraft carrier using the simulation of the F-35 aircraft with an actual aviator as
their instructor! Bring your coworkers, your golf group, or your tennis team and have an amazing day! What
will you achieve at the National Flight Academy?
N a v a l A v i a t i o n M u s e u m F o u n d a t i o n, I n c. — 2 0 1 3 A n n u a l R e p o r t
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N a v a l A v i a t i o n M u s e u m F o u n d a t i o n, I n c. — 2 0 1 3 A n n u a l R e p o r t
The Museum
T
he mission of the National Naval Aviation Museum, owned and
operated by the U.S. Navy, is to “select, collect, preserve and display
historic artifacts relating to the history of Naval Aviation.” At the
core of the Museum’s collections are more than 800 aircraft — most
of which are on display at other museums. Some one hundred fifty
are on display at the National Naval Aviation Museum. These include
record setting aircraft like the NC-4 flying boat, the first plane to fly
the Atlantic, as well as combat veterans, including an SBD Dauntless that flew at the Battle of Midway, two Vietnam MiG-killers and
an A-7 Corsair II that logged missions over Iraq during Operation
Desert Storm. Though they are the largest of the Museum artifacts,
the aircraft are just one dimension of the collection. Small artifacts
include uniforms, flight gear, weaponry, medals and decorations that
add a personal dimension to the story of Naval Aviation. In addition,
the Emil Buehler Naval Aviation Library, which houses personal and
official papers of prominent Naval Aviators, squadron records and a
photograph collection numbering more 350,000 images, is a significant repository of naval history and draws researchers from around
the world.
The year 2013, brought a number of acquisitions to the collections
of the National Naval Aviation Museum. Artifacts and archival collections acquired during the year included: epaulettes and a fore and
aft hat that were part of the dress uniform of Ensign William Devotie Billingsley, the first Naval Aviator to die in the line of duty in
June 1913; collection of papers from the files of Lieutenant (junior
grade) Wilfred Kaneb detailing his work in designing the Underwater
Cockpit Escape Device, better known as the “Dilbert Dunker” during World War II; commemorative tray presented to SSM2/c Richard
W. Leach, honoring his service in the light carrier USS Independence
(CVL-22) during World War II; and World War II “Eisenhower”
nurse uniform suit jacket, leather flight jacket and nurse corps insignia worn by Jeanette J. Brandt, NC, USN. As the Museum has grown,
so has its popularity. In the last decade alone, visitation has more than
doubled, exceeding 900,000 annually in the years preceding Hurricane Ivan. In recent years, Museum visitation has steadily increased as
more people return to the area for vacation. In addition, the National
Naval Aviation Museum has achieved national recognition as one of
the premiere aviation museums in the world and is the most visited
museum in Florida. The Museum received the prestigious American
Association of Museums’ accreditation in 2002. Our visitors come
from every state in the Union and more than 60 foreign countries.
On a given day, more than 70 percent of our visitors are from outside
Florida.
The National Naval Aviation Museum is part of the Naval History
and Heritage Command, the largest of the 12 official Navy museums
located throughout the United States.
N a v a l A v i a t i o n M u s e u m F o u n d a t i o n, I n c. — 2 0 1 3 A n n u a l R e p o r t
17
The Volunteer Spirit
P
erhaps the most important ingredient to the Museum’s day-to-day operation is the staff of enthusiastic and willing volunteers
who provide that very important personal touch to a visitor’s Museum experience. Numbering more than 400, the volunteer staff
performs a myriad of functions: conducting tours, providing security, working in the Museum’s restoration facility, assisting in
special events, staffing the library and providing administrative assistance. This year, the volunteers logged more than 84,242
hours, representing a third of the Museum’s man-hour effort. With a majority of the volunteers possessing backgrounds in Naval
Aviation, a trip through its proud history is enhanced by a “been there, done that” touch that is the source of much favorable
comment, including a Certificate of Commendation from the Secretary of the Navy, and is indicative of the dedication and
devotion possessed by a staff that has become the very backbone of the Museum. The volunteer program is run by the Museum
and financially supported by the Foundation.
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N a v a l A v i a t i o n M u s e u m F o u n d a t i o n, I n c. — 2 0 1 3 A n n u a l R e p o r t
2013 Corporate Alliance
T
he Corporate Alliance is a cornerstone of our ability to support and enhance the National Naval Aviation Museum as
we work to inspire and educate the public. Corporate donors provide critical funding and services for Museum programs and
expansions; development of the National Flight Academy; and Foundation events and educational projects. We wish to thank
the Corporate Sponsors listed below for their generous contributions during 2013.
$200,000+
FedEx Corporation
The Boeing Company
The Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust
Lockheed Martin Corporation
Northrop Grumman Corporation
Amoskeag Beverages, LLC
Appleyard Agency, Inc.
Dr. Scholl Foundation
Elbit Systems of America
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Gulf Power Company
Gulf Power Foundation, Inc.
$100,000+
Hirtle, Callaghan & Co LLC
Delta Air Lines, Inc.
Huntington Ingalls Industries
Escambia County Board of Commissioners Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation
Johnson Supply Company
$50,000+
Joyce and Donald Rumsfeld Foundation
McMullen Family Foundation
L-3 Vertex Aerospace
Millenium Laboratories
The Lewis Bear Company
The Mary R. and John J. Schiff Foundation Uvas Foundation
USAA
$2,500+
$25,000+
ABSee The Museum, Inc.
Bombardier
Alfred I. duPont Foundation, Inc.
JURA Corporation
AppRiver, LLC
Rolls-Royce North America, Inc.
Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc.
Patrol Squadron Two Association
Early and Pioneer Naval Aviators Assn.
General Electric Aviation
$10,000+
Hurricane Hunters, Inc.
AT&T
International Association of Airline Hams, Inc.
Cat Country 98.7 /News Radio 1620
Navy Federal Credit Union
City of Pensacola
Pen Air Federal Credit Union
Delaware North Companies
Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce
Escambia County Sheriff ’s Office
Raytheon Missile Systems
Experimental Aircraft Association-Chapter 479 WEAR TV-3
Pratt & Whitney Military Engines
Wyle Laboratories
Santa Rosa Island Authority
Tides Foundation
$1,000+
Yellow Book
A-7 Corsair II Association Inc.
American Fidelity Life Insurance Company
$5,000+
ANA Bald Eagle Squadron
American Legion Post 340
Apple Corps, Inc./The Appleyard Foundation
Armed Forces Communications and
Electronics Assn./Blue Angels Chapter
Armstrong World Industries, Inc.
Beggs & Lane
Bizzell Neff & Galloway, P.A.
Central Credit Union of Florida
Chicago Car Auction, Inc.
District School Board of Monroe County
Executive Landscaping, Inc.
Flight Avionics of North America, Inc.
Florida Bankers Association
Greater Pensacola Chamber
Hawker Beechcraft Corporation
Hiles-McLeod Insurance, Inc.
IT Gulfcoast
Jewelers Trade Shop, Inc.
JWO Enterprises
Kelton Company
Landrum Human Resource Company
Levin & Papantonio Family Foundation, Inc.
Mansfield Industrial
McMahon-Hadder Insurance, Inc.
Mitchell Proffitt Company, Inc.
Navy League of the U.S.- Sarasota Manatee Council
Patron Four Five Association
Pensacola Aviation Center
Pensacola Blue Wahoos
Pinnacle Solutions, Inc.
Regions Bank
Robb & Associates, Inc.
Silver Wings Fraternity
Sporty’s Foundation
The Hobbs Foundation Corporation
University of West Florida
Walsworth Print Group
N a v a l A v i a t i o n M u s e u m F o u n d a t i o n, I n c. — 2 0 1 3 A n n u a l R e p o r t
19
1750 Radford Boulevard, Suite B
NAS Pensacola, Florida 32508
850.453.2389 • 800.327.5002
www.NavalAviationMuseum.org