Altitudes of Support
Capital Campaign Goal Announced
On January 24, 2009 Bong P-38 Fund inc Chairman Terry Lundberg formally announced to the media an expanded mission and a new name for our museum - the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center. In response to numerous requests from post-WWII veterans to consider honoring their generation's service, the Center's new Mission Statement reads:
The Mission of the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center is to honor the memory of Major Bong and all the Veterans of WWII and later conflicts whose sacrifices maintain our Freedoms. The Center is an educational resource that collects and preserves the tangible legacy of these veterans and their home front supporters. In addition the Center perpetuates their ideals, principles, and leadership skills for today as well as future generations.
Terry also announced a capital campaign goal for the Center of $500,000 in 2009, $75,000 of which has already been pledged. Funds from the campaign will be used to enhance the Center's operations and help prepare for the expansion of collections and exhibits related to the new mission. The board of directors has also established an endowment fund that will be invested to help generate regular income for annual operations.
It was also announced that the Center will begin collecting relevant artifacts from the post-WWII era and that a Vererans Wall for all veterans is being planned to compliment the existing World War II Veterans Wall of Honor. When details for the new tile wall are complete the Center will issue a press release and will contact our newsletter subscribers directly.