Museum Lecture Series

Dr. Thomas D. Jones, a veteran NASA astronaut, scientist, speaker, author and consultant, gives a presentation based on the book Hell Hawks! -- which he co-authored with Robert F. Dorr.

Medal of Honor recipient Col. (Ret.) Leo K. Thorsness discusses how combat and prison expand the importance of making the most of what we have, techniques of coping with disadvantages, of finding out we are stronger than we think, and of realizing most of us come out the back end of adversity better, stronger and smarter than when we went in.

Maj. Nicole Malachowski, who became well known as the first female pilot on any U.S. jet demonstration team, discusses "America's Women Military Aviators: From WASP, to Thunderbirds, to the Future."

Dr. Michael L. Grumelli examines the relationship among airmen, technology and airmindedness in early military aviation.

Air Force HH-60G Pave-Hawk pilot Lt. Col. Jeffrey Peterson recalls his role in the daring combat rescue attempt of a Navy Seal in Afghanistan.

Tech. Sgt. Israel Del Toro shares his inspiring story of survival. In Afghanistan on Dec. 4, 2005, his Humvee rolled over a roadside bomb, causing wounds that have forever changed his face, hands and Air Force career.

Retired Canadian Col. Lorne RodenBush discusses his role as Canada's Permanent Representative to the International Control Commission in Hanoi during the height of the bombing in the Vietnam War.

Son Tay Raider pilot Maj. (Ret.) William A. Guenon Jr. explains how he flew "low and slow" in the lead C-130, operating in radio silence, as he led the unlikely formation of six rescue helicopters carrying 56 Green Berets to the Son Tay Prison, while avoiding surface-to-air missiles, MiG and anti-aircraft artillery threats around Hanoi.

Former Air Force sergeant and co-author of the original story for the major motion picture, “Good Morning, Vietnam!” Adrian Cronauer discusses his work with the Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office.

Best-selling author Dr. Donald L. Miller discusses his award-winning book, “Masters of the Air: America's Bomber Boys Who Fought the Air War Against Nazi Germany.”