Hickory – The Hickory Aviation Museum is pleased to announce that we will be receiving an FM2 Wildcat “On Loan” from the Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Florida. The
Wildcat is truly a historic aircraft and saw a lot of service with the US Navy and Marine Corps during the early parts of the Pacific Campaign in WWII. The Wildcat was the first in the “Cat” series of Fighter Aircraft from Grumman, succeeded by the Hellcat, Bearcat, Tigercat, and eventually the Tomcat.
Our Wildcat saw combat in WWII and was later completely restored by The Museum of Naval Aviation. A more detailed history of the aircraft will be made after delivery. Our curator is currently working with the Museum of Naval Aviation to get all of the details.
The Hickory Aviation Museum is a non-profit organization and is supported by donations from our community. We do not charge admission to the museum. As with any of the aircraft that are on display at the Hickory Aviation Museum, we are responsible for the costs associated with moving the airplane. We are in the process of raising $15,000 to cover the cost of the move. Anyone desiring to make a tax-deductible contribution can do so by sending a check to: The Hickory Aviation Museum, 2908 2nd Ave. NW. Hickory, NC. 28601.
The Hickory Aviation Museum will be adding two new aircraft by the end of the summer, so standby for new developments. For more info., call (828)-323-1963.
