A new exhibit, titled “100 Missions Up North,” opens March 19 at the National Museum of the United States Air Force.
The display highlights the story of airmen who flew missions in the deadly skies above North Vietnam and neighboring countries during the Southeast Asia War.
Located in the Modern Flight Gallery, the exhibit features more than 50 historical photographs, approximately 100 artifacts, such as flight suits, boonie hats, unique patches, and first-hand accounts of the courage of many U.S. Air Force pilots and crewman.
The exhibit primarily revolves around the “100 Mission patch,” which became a symbolic mark of courage during Operation Rolling Thunder from 1965-1968. The achievement of 100 missions grew into a rich tradition with its own proud customs, such as elaborate celebrations, growing of “bullet proof” mustaches or end-of-tour dunkings.
For more information: NationalMuseum.af.mil
