PRESS RELEASE            OCTOBER 15, 2003

 

FROM:  THE OCTAVE CHANUTE AEROSPACE MUSEUM ( www.aeromuseum.org )

   1011 Pacesetter Dr.
    Rantoul, IL. 61866     (217) 893-1613

 

            The Octave Chanute Aerospace Museum is launching a concerted effort via the World Wide Web to generate support for the restoration of the North American Aviation P-51H Mustang on display at the museum.

The Mustang is one of only five ‘H’ models known to remain in the world, and years spent as an outdoor display has taken its toll on this once fine aircraft.

            Headed by museum volunteer Norm Meyers, the Mustang Restoration Project allows Mustang enthusiasts from all over the world to participate in the restoration process. Through donations of money, parts, supplies and expertise, the ultimate goal is to return this aircraft to as close to its original condition as is possible. Additionally, Norm hopes to collect documents, photos and stories from the men and women who built, maintained and flew the ‘H’ Mustangs to save the history surrounding this, the last front line piston engine, single seat fighter employed by the US Air Force.

            Donations of books, manuals, vintage parts, and expert restoration advice constitute another major area for participation.

            With the power of the Internet, the project hopes to reach aviation enthusiasts from around the world and invite them to become part of the restoration team. Corporate and Organizational sponsors are being sought to help in this project and aviation websites are participating through links to the project site.

            Donors can receive frameable certificates for their participation as well as being honored on the web site and on a permanent display within the museum. Sponsors can participate through site sponsorship, and contributions of parts or material supplies and services.

            Additional information is available from Jim Snyder, Executive Director of the museum (director@aeromuseum.org ) or Norm Meyers, Project Director ( p51h@insightbb.com ).

 

            The Octave Chanute Aerospace Museum is a non-profit aviation museum located on the site of the former Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul Illinois. As the largest aerospace museum in Illinois, O.C.A.M. is challenging itself to become a world-class facility. Inquiries are welcomed.

 

            Additional information is available by visiting http://home.insightbb.com/~p51h/index.htm and www.aeromuseum.org/Exhibits/Restorations/P51H/RestorationHome.htm .

 

Thank You for your consideration.

Norm Meyers

Project Director

OCAM Mustang Restoration Project