NOTAM 2026 Vol 1 #63 Digital

NOTAM

N OTICE TO AIRMEN | VOL. 1 2026 | ISSUE #63

PEARL HARBOR AVIATION MUSEUM | FORD ISLAND, HAWAII

REMEMBERING JOHN GLEESON: Honoring a Lifetime of Service and Dedication

ON THE HORIZON: GROWTH, GRATITUDE, AND THE FUTURE

By John P. Hiltz, Chief Executive Officer

As we open the first NOTAM of 2026, I’m struck by how clearly the stories that follow reflect the heart of Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum — who we are, why we exist, and where we are going.

Our mission is a profound responsibility: Remember, Honor, and Inspire across all generations. Every aircraft we restore, every student we teach, every family that walks our campus connects to that purpose. We are stewards of history, but we are equally builders of the future, and this issue captures that balance beautifully.

A NATIONAL TREASURE AND COMMUNITY RESOURCE

Our vision guides how we bring that mission to life: a beautiful campus, an outstanding and truly unique visitor experience, the most “PHAMily”-friendly destination in Pearl Harbor, and a Museum that serves as both a national treasure and a vital community resource. You’ll see those priorities reflected throughout this volume, from curatorial insights and visitor experience highlights to education programs and updates on the Remember Pearl Harbor Capital Campaign.

None of this happens without partnership. I want to express my sincere appreciation to our sponsors, partners, donors, volunteers, and staff whose support was so visible at our For Love of Country Gala. The evening was a rousing success becauseofyourcollectiveleadership,generosity,andcontinued commitment and belief in our mission and programs.

Looking ahead, we are already excited to celebrate a major milestone; our 20th Anniversary Gala on December 5, 2026. It will be an opportunity not only to reflect on how far we’ve come, but to look boldly toward the future we are building together.

OUR STUDENTS ARE EXCELLING

One of the areas that makes me especially proud is our Aviation Pathways program. Our students are excelling—in the classroom, in the laboratory, and in the air. They are earning certifications, logging flight hours, and demonstrating discipline and professionalism well beyond their years.

Their success is a direct reflection of our instructors, mentors, and many supporters who believe deeply in the power of aviation education.

That belief is shared by those who created and those who support our scholarship endowments to provide critical financial support to individuals who are working toward a career in aviation. The demand for these scholarships has never been higher, and the selection process has become increasingly competitive, a testament to both the caliber of our applicants and the reputation of our programs.

Thank you for being part of our PHAMily. Whether you support us as a donor, volunteer, educator, veteran, or Member, you are helping ensure that the lessons of the past continue to inspire the leaders, aviators, and citizens of tomorrow.

We are honored to share these stories with you. I’m glad to be here.

John Hiltz Chief Executive Officer Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

PEARL HARBOR AVIATION MUSEUM WELCOMES

MAJ. GEN. SHERRIE L. MCCANDLESS TO BOARD OF DIRECTORS

By RADM Alma Grocki, USN (Ret.), Board Member and Nominating Committee Chair

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is honored to welcome Maj. Gen. Sherrie L. McCandless, USAF (Ret.), to its Board of Directors. While her distinguished military career speaks for itself, it is her deep personal connection to the Museum’s mission that inspired her to join our leadership.

A FAMILY LEGACY ROOTED IN WORLD WAR II

For Maj. Gen. McCandless, the story of World War II is also a family story. Her grandfather, Private 1st Class Theodore H. Below, landed on Iwo Jima and spent the entirety of the battle on the island. He lived to be 98 years old and his courage, endurance, and service in the Pacific were an inspiration to her and her family. His legacy instilled in her a lifelong respect for those who served in the war and a desire to help preserve their stories. This personal connection is a meaningful part of why she felt called to serve on the Board of Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

LEADERSHIP FORGED THROUGH SERVICE

Her decades of aviation, command, and national security leadership have uniquely prepared her for this role. As the former Commanding General of the District of Columbia National Guard, Maj. Gen. McCandless oversaw strategic leadership, readiness, and operational performance across both Air and Army components. She has commanded at multiple levels, served in pivotal joint strategic roles, deployed extensively throughout the Middle East, and logged more than 2,100 flight hours as a Command Pilot in the F-16, A-10, C-40, and T-38.

A PASSION FOR OUR MISSION

Beyond her distinguished career, Maj. Gen. McCandless is deeply committed to expanding access to aviation careers for the next generation, especially for girls. She believes that early exposure, mentorship, and viable role models are essential to opening doors to all those who have a passion for aviation. This commitment aligns closely with the Museum’s mission to inspire students, not only to learn from aviation history, but to imagine themselves shaping its future as leaders in aviation and in their communities. Grounded in a lifetime of service, stewardship, and leadership, she brings a perspective that will strengthen the Museum’s work to preserve America’s WWII aviation battlefield, honor the Greatest Generation, and ignite curiosity and learning for generations to come.

FOR LOVE OF COUNTRY GALA COMMITTEE CHAIR

In addition to joining the Board, Maj. Gen. McCandless has stepped up to serve as Chair of the Museum’s For Love of Country Gala Committee. Her proven ability to lead teams, inspire excellence, and manage complex undertakings makes her exceptionally well-suited for this critical responsibility. We look forward to the energy, vision, and transformational impact she will bring to the Museum’s largest annual fundraising event of the year.

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is proud to welcome Maj. Gen. McCandless and looks forward to the passion, insight, and dedication she will bring to our mission and our community.

ANGELS OF MERCY: THE NAVY FLIGHT NURSES OF IWO JIMA

By McKinley Seaver, Special Projects Assistant

This year marks the 81st anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, one of the fiercest and bloodiest engagements of the Pacific War. As we honor the courage and sacrifice of the heroes who fought on those shores, we also remember the lesser-known heroes whose skill, compassion, and resolve brought lifesaving care to Marines at their most vulnerable: the Navy’s first flight nurses.

A BATTLE OF RELENTLESS RESISTANCE

As the battle to secure Iwo Jima continued to rage in the opening days of March 1945, Marines on the island faced a growing problem… casualties. Having summited Mount Suribachi on February 23, Marines pushed north across the island into the heart of Lt. Gen. Tadamichi Kuribayashi’s defenses. Beneath the dark volcanic rock of Iwo lay a dense network of pillboxes, blockhouses, and gun emplacements designed to inflict the maximum number of casualties on American forces.

By March, the growing number of casualties had forced the Navy to increase the number of hospital ships to transport wounded from Iwo Jima to Saipan or Guam. Despite this allocation of ships, the Navy still lacked sufficient means to evacuate wounded from the island; it was clear that another solution was needed.

TAKING TO THE SKIES UNDER FIRE

Despite being subjected to enemy fire, volcanic dust, and variable weather, air evacuation service was initiated from Motoyama Airfield No. 1 on March 3, 1945. Flights by Air Transport Evacuation Squadron 1 (VRE-1) brought vital blood and medical supplies from Guam, yet for those lying in their stretchers, it was the care they received from medical personnel that meant the world.

FIRST FLIGHT NURSES ENTER COMBAT

Emerging from the cargo door of a Douglas R4D Skytrain on March 6, flight nurse Ens. Jane L. “Candy” Kendeigh became the first Navy flight nurse to enter an active combat zone, but she was far from alone. As graduates of the Navy’s School of Air Evacuation Casualties, Ens. Kendeigh and her female peers represented the culmination of everything the armed services had learned about air evacuations in the South Pacific and North Africa.

After 8 weeks of intensive training, which covered topics including but not limited to survival training and the treatment of patients in non-pressurized cabins, these flight nurses were some of the finest in the world. As part of the first class of graduates, Ens. Kendeigh and 11 of her peers departed for Guam to take part in active combat operations.

SAVING THOUSANDS OF LIVES

Although the Navy had initially anticipated evacuating 350 patients by air per week, the reality proved otherwise, with half to two-thirds of the planned evacuations occurring daily. In no small feat of its own by March 21, VRE-1 had evacuated 2,393 personnel, and through it all the way were Navy flight nurses.

Often overshadowed by combat medical studies and the larger battle itself, the actions of these 12 flight nurses go far beyond those asked of the ordinary.

Yet it is not just a matter of memory, but one of reflection, for although we may never know the feelings of those poor Marines as the transports taxied to the casualty clearing station on Motoyama Airfield No. 1, engines roaring and flight nurses in tow, it is the lessons they leave behind which are most important. One of empathy… dignity… respect.

PHAMILY FUN DAYS: LOOKING BACK & AHEAD

By Bill Miller, Director of Visitor Services

Our PHAMily Fun Days feature fun and creative themes all-year-round! Visitors and local families stop in to enjoy family-friendly activities, including coloring, scavenger hunts and more. Future aviators take flight as keiki explore the cockpit of one of our aircraft.

Last year’s PHAMily Fun Days brought families together for hands-on activities, kid-friendly learning, and memorable moments across the Museum. With strong attendance, great partners and vendors, and plenty of energy from both guests and staff, these events reinforced the importance of creating engaging, family-forward experiences that make aviation history fun and accessible for all ages.

The themes were creative, memorable, and—quite frankly— experimental, as the team tried new ideas to capture the public imagination. Many lessons were learned (some harder than others), and those insights are helping us move forward stronger and smarter.

WHAT’S COMING NEXT

We’re excited to build on that momentum in the year ahead. For 2026, PHAMily Fun Day dates and themes are locked in earlier than ever, giving sponsors, presenters, and vendors more time to maximize their participation and support. This added efficiency sets the stage for program growth and a stronger community presence—a true win-win.

Activities tied to each theme are currently in development, and we’re always happy to hear from individuals and organizations interested in contributing activities, resources, or sponsorships. PHAMily Fun Days are a bit like a community potluck—everyone brings energy, creativity, and fun.

We kicked off the year with a Valentine’s “Love Is in the Air” theme, featuring couples’ photos in the F-111C cockpit, lei making, and a special exhibit of wartime letters to sweethearts. March will bring Remote Control (RC) planes and open cockpits, and we’re already looking ahead to returning favorites like Cockpits & Candy around Halloween and Winter Wonderland in December (yes—we’re already talking with Santa).

SPREAD THE WORD

PHAMily Fun Days thrive because of the people who show up, pitch in, and spread the word. If you know an individual, group, school, or organization that would enjoy participating—whether through an activity, resource, sponsorship, or creative idea— we’d love to hear from them. Please share this information widely and help us continue growing a fun, welcoming, and community-powered experience for families at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

All of these efforts support our broader goal of welcoming more families, increasing repeat visitation, and delivering consistently excellent—and fun—experiences across the Museum. We can’t wait to see everyone at the Museum!

Full details are available on our online event calendar. Scan the QR code or visit bit.ly/ PHAMeventcalendar for the latest updates and event information.

EDUCATION AT PHAM: WHAT'S AHEAD FOR OUR YOUTH, TEACHERS AND FAMILIES

By Greg Ferris, Director of Education

Students in our Aviation Pathways A&P program receive hands-on training, mentorship, and career-focused preparation.

As we look ahead to the coming year, we are encouraged by the momentum across our youth education initiatives and the expanding opportunities for youth, educators, and families.

Junior Aeronauts, for students in grades 3–5, runs June 15–19, 2026, and invites younger students to discover the wonder of flight through engaging STEM activities that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Flight School for middle school students (grades 6–8offers the same immersive curriculum focused on aerodynamics, engineering challenges, teamwork, and leadership, delivered in separate sessions for boys and girls to foster supportive and confidence-building learning environments. Flight School for Boys takes place June 29–July 3, 2026, followed by Flight School for Girls, from July 13–17, 2026

FIELD TRIPS TO THE MUSEUM

Field trips remain one of the most impactful ways we serve our local schools and communities. Each year, students visit our historic hangars and aircraft exhibits to experience aviation history, hands-on STEM learning, and career exploration. Thanks to generous donor and grant support, the Museum helps offset costs and provides transportation assistance for eligible Title I schools, removing barriers that might otherwise prevent participation.

Grounded in our mission to steward America’s World War II aviation battlefield—sharing the artifacts, personal stories, and the impact of the attack on December 7, 1941, and the Pacific region battles that followed—we remain committed to honoring those who defended our freedom.

This foundation guides our work to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and open meaningful pathways into aviation, STEM, and future careers for the next generation.

EDUCATIONAL SUMMER PROGRAMS

Our Summer Programs return with dynamic, hands-on learning experiences designed to ignite excitement and deepen students’ connection to aviation.

Through interactive challenges centered on flight principles, engineering, teamwork, and leadership, students actively explore how aviation and STEM come to life while building confidence and curiosity along the way. Registration for all Summer Programs, which take place onsite on Historic Ford Island, are now open.

PACIFIC WINGS PODCAST

Through the generosity of the Price family, I was able to continue pursuing the career I’ve always wanted.

This year, we are launching Pacific Wings, a new podcast replacing our webinar series to make educational content more accessible.

EpisodeswillexploreWorldWarIIand Pacific aviation history—including Midway, Pearl Harbor, the Flying Tigers, and the evolution of air combat tactics—while sharing a Hawaiʻi perspective on how these events shaped our islands. Distribution details will be announced soon.

Mahalo to the educators, families, partners, and supporters who make this work possible.

Join us in inspiring the next generation of aviation leaders. Explore field trips, summer programs, and partnership opportunities at pearlharboraviationmuseum.org/education.

Learning how to fly an ILS approach. In the air, putting my simulator skills to the test. Flying in the simulator with my CFII, Tayla Funes.

THE HEART OF A VOLUNTEER: A TRIBUTE TO JOHN CONWAY GLEESON (1923–2026)

By Tracie Hunter, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Volunteer and Friend of John Gleeson

“There’s nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer.” — Gen. James A. "Jimmy" Doolittle

Few lives embody that truth as completely as that of John Conway Gleeson.

John did not simply serve. He volunteered. Again and again, across wars, careers, decades, and generations, he chose to step forward. Not for recognition. Not for reward. But because, to John, showing up for others was simply the right thing to do.

ANSWERING THE CALL AFTER PEARL HARBOR

When the attack on Pearl Harbor happened, John felt what he later described as “a wave of patriotism.” On December 8, 1941, the day after the attack, he enlisted in the Army Air Forces. Like so many of his generation, he did not wait to be called. He volunteered to serve his country and fellow man, a decision that set the tone for a lifetime defined not by obligation, but by choice.

Yet John’s story of volunteerism did not stop with enlistment. During World War II, after learning of the staggering loss of life on D-Day in June of 1944, John felt compelled to do more. Though already serving, he believed his skills could be put to greater use in a combat role. When his superior denied his request, John refused to accept no as the final answer. He took his case to the Inspector General, not to advance himself, but to advocate for the chance to serve where he was most needed.

STEPPING FORWARD INTO DANGER

The Inspector General heard his plea. Shortly thereafter, John was shipped to aerial gunnery school at Tyndall Field in Florida to train as a flight engineer and top turret gunner aboard heavy bombers. It was a path filled with danger and uncertainty, but John chose it willingly. He volunteered for it, once again proving that there is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer.

John would go on to fly perilous missions over Europe with the Eighth Air Force aboard B-24 Liberators. Later, he served with the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) on covert Operation Carpetbagger missions, flying blacked-out aircraft on nighttime operations without fighter escort and delivering supplies to resistance fighters in Nazi-occupied Norway. These were not assignments sought for glory. They demanded courage, precision, and a willingness to risk everything for people John would never meet, often without recognition due to the secrecy surrounding those missions.

CONTINUING A LIFE OF SERVICE

After the war, John returned home, married the love of his life, Barbara, and began raising a family. But volunteerism did not fade with the uniform. Aviation remained his passion, and service remained his compass. Over his life, he earned his civilian pilot’s license, flew with the Civil Air Patrol and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, and even reenlisted during the Korean War. His lifelong commitment to aviation, mentorship, and community would ultimately touch thousands.

A BELOVED VOLUNTEER AT PHAM

John was a founding member of Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and in his centenarian years became one of its most beloved volunteers.

Visitors came for the aircraft, but stayed for John. He put a human face to the aircraft they came to see, reminding them that these planes did not fly themselves. Behind every one was a person and a story of courage, sacrifice, and the American spirit.

CONNECTING GENERATIONS

Week after week, he gave his time freely, greeting guests, sharing stories, answering questions, and connecting generations to living history.

What made John extraordinary was not just what he did, but how he did it. He never sought praise. He never asked for anything in return.

He gave his time, his energy, and his heart, whether organizing aviation events, supporting youth cadet programs, volunteering with veteran nonprofits, or simply brightening a room with a smile and a story.

At 102 years old, just two weeks before his passing, John was still volunteering at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Few people can say they lived their calling until the very end. John did.

“MR. SUNSHINE”

To those who knew him, John was affectionately called “Mr. Sunshine.” He never met a stranger He had a gift for making people feel seen and welcomed, whether they were world leaders, Museum visitors, or fellow residents at his assisted living community. His faith guided him, his integrity grounded him, and his generosity defined him.

In the final days of his life, knowing his time was nearing its end, John said of Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, “I’m glad I was able to bring some happiness. You let them know I’m there in spirit.” And he is.

A FINAL SALUTE IN HANGAR 79

During his memorial service, held in Hangar 79, the F-14 Tomcat serving as the backdrop bore the number 102 across its nose, John’s age at the time of his passing. It felt like a final wink from John, a quiet reminder of his promise that he would always remain with us in spirit.

John Gleeson set a standard, not just for service, but for selflessness. He showed us that volunteerism is not a chapter of life, but a way of living. That giving does not require recognition. And that true strength is often quiet, steady, and deeply human.

Because there truly is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer, and John Gleeson’s heart was among the strongest of all.

“These images are computer generated and subject to change.”

2025 FOR LOVE OF COUNTRY GALA: AN EVENING OF REMEMBRANCE AND INSPIRATION

By Woo Ri Kim, Sr. Director of Philanthropic Strategies and Programs

On December 6, 2025, nearly 600 guests gathered in historic Hangar 79 for a powerful and unforgettable evening of remembrance. Together, we honored the courage and sacrifice of our veterans and service members while raising vital support to ensure the lessons of our past continue to inspire, challenge, and shape the leaders of tomorrow.

We were deeply honored to welcome World War II veterans, iconic Rosie the Riveters, and many others who have proudly served our nation. For the second consecutive year, we were also thrilled to host legendary aviation icon Si Robin and family, whose presence added extraordinary meaning to the evening.

RAISE THE PADDLE FOR EDUCATION

A highlight of the night was Raise the Paddle for Education, made possible by a generous $125,000 challenge gift from the Ray Foundation.

This gift supported part of the Museum’s Aviation Pathways initiative, a transformative program that provides training and flight grants to students pursuing their Private Pilot License. With the match, guests raised more than $267,000—opening doors to opportunity and empowering Hawai ’i ’s youth to pursue futures in aviation.

The excitement continued when the Si Robin Foundation announced a dollar-for-dollar match for all $1,000 paddle raises. The $37,000 raised at that level was instantly doubled, generating an additional $37,000 to benefit the Aviation Pathways High School A&P Mechanic Program.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES AND AIRLINE SUPPORT

Guests enjoyed bidding on memorable travel experiences throughout the evening, many of which were supported throughthegenerouscontribution ofAAdvantage®milesfrom American Airlines, our official airline partner for the 2025 For Love of Country Gala. American also made possible a special 150,000-mile giveaway, adding excitement and opportunity for our guests while advancing the Museum’s mission.

The auction also included a Super Bowl getaway supported by Airbus, with flight accommodations provided by Delta Air Lines. We are grateful for their contribution in helping enhance the auction and generate critical support for our education programs.

SPECIAL THANKS

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the Si Robin Foundation, the Ray Foundation, our Grand Education Sponsors, Rick and TeresaPrice,aswellasourgeneroussponsors,galacommittee, staff, volunteers, and every guest who joined us. Your collective support made this extraordinary evening possible and advances the Museum’s mission to preserve America’s WWII aviation battlefield, honor our Greatest Generation, and inspire future leaders Please visit our website or scan the QR code below to see a full list of sponsors.

PLEASE JOIN US

Mark your calendars for the next For Love of Country Gala on Saturday, December 5, 2026. To learn more please visit: www.ForLoveofCountry.org.

WHY PEARL HARBOR STILL MATTERS

By Gen. Richard Myers, USAF (Ret.) and Mary Jo Myers, National Chairs, Remember Pearl Harbor Capital Campaign

PearlHarborisnotjustaplaceinhistory.Forthoseofuswhohave worn the uniform—and for our families who served alongside us—it is a living reminder of what happens when a nation is tested, and how leadership, unity, and resolve determine what comes next.

LESSONS CARRIED FORWARD

On December 7, 1941, America was caught unprepared. What followed was an extraordinary national response driven by innovation, sacrifice, and unity of purpose. Sixty years later, the attacks of September 11, 2001 called upon the courage of a new generation confronting a similar moment of shock and loss In the aftermath of 9/11, as the military worked to defend the nation and chart a path forward, the echoes of Pearl Harbor were unmistakable.

A NATIONAL VISION WORTHY OF THE SITE

It is our deepest honor to lead the Remember Pearl Harbor Capital Campaign, a $51 million national imperative to ensure that America’s WWII aviation battlefield is fully restored and protected, a lasting tribute that educates, inspires, and connects generations. The campaign addresses three enduring priorities:

• Transforming historic facilities so that visitors experience history where it happened

• Preserving and restoring iconic aircraft and artifacts, safeguarding stories that cannot be replaced

• Expanding education and workforce programs that prepare young people for futures in aviation, engineering, and service

This is not about preserving the past for nostalgia’s sake. It is about equipping future leaders with context, perspective, and inspiration.

MOMENTUM AND NATIONAL LEADERSHIP

Great progress has already been made. More than the dollars raised, we are “growing” a broad circle of commitment, locally and nationally, bringing together individuals who understand that Pearl Harbor belongs to the entire nation, not just Hawai’i. Over the next few months, we plan to form a National Leadership Committee to help us bring this vision to reality.

THE HANGAR 79 SI ROBIN CHALLENGE AND OTHER SIGNIFICANT SUPPORT

To date, we have raised over $11 million to achieve our vision. The Bob and Dolores Hope Foundation, the Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust, and many local and national supporters have given wings to our bold vision. Plans for Hangars 37 and 79, designed by Ralph

Appelbaum Associates, include the future display of a Lockheed P-38 Lightning and galleries devoted to our national collective response to the attacks as well as an immersive attack theater featuring all three attacking Japanese aircraft.

THE MOST IMMEDIATE NEED

As with any mission of consequence, there remains a critical objective directly ahead. Although we have raised over $7.5 million to execute the transformative curation of Hangar 79, we will require $3 million to fully advance the vision. Securing this support now would immediately move this project forward, setting the stage for subsequent work in Hangar 37 and around the grounds. Each step in this vision will transform this historic WWII battlefield into a space that vividly conveys the ingenuity, courage, and determination that define American aviation history.

Will you join us?

LOOKING AHEAD

As the Museum approaches its 20th anniversary this December, we are reminded that institutions like this only endure because people choose to invest—in memory, in education, and in our youth.

Pearl Harbor taught our nation hard lessons in 1941. In the years since—including moments like 9/11—we have learned that these lessons still matter. It is our hope that thousands of individuals, including you, will join us to ensure that Pearl Harbor, continues to speak with clarity and purpose to generations yet to come.

Please scan the QR code to the right or visit RememberPearlHarbor.org to learn more.

Technology advanced rapidly during World War II in ways that kept people connected no matter where they lived.

Captivating displays and interactive experiences abound, including a wall featuring Bob Hope’s USO tours for the troops.

PLANNED GIVING AND ANNUAL GIVING: WHY BOTH MATTER

By Woo Ri Kim, Sr. Director of Philanthropic Strategies and Programs

At Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, we are privileged to care for one of our nation’s most sacred historic sites while inspiring future generations through education, workforce development, and public programs. This mission of preserving history and shaping the future is made possible by the generosity of our supporters.

ANNUAL GIVING

Many friends of the Museum are familiar with annual giving, which provides essential support for our work today. Annual gifts help preserve historic aircraft, maintain exhibits, welcome visitors from around the world, and fund programs that serve students and families across Hawai ’i. From PHAMily Fun Days and school field trips to pilot training and scholarship opportunities, annual giving fuels the experiences happening right now.

PLANNED GIVING

Planned Giving, sometimes called Legacy Giving, looks ahead. It allows supporters to provide for loved ones first, while also ensuring the Museum’s mission endures. These gifts are typically arranged through a will, trust, or beneficiary designation on a retirement account or life insurance policy and may include options such as Qualified Charitable Distributions from an IRA.

Planned gifts do not impact your finances today and can be adjusted as life circumstances change. Many supporters are surprised to learn that planned giving is not about wealth; it’s about values, intention, and leaving a lasting impact.

WHY BOTH MATTER

Annual giving keeps the Museum vibrant and active today. Planned giving helps safeguard the Museum’s future, ensuring

that the stories, aircraft, and lessons preserved on America’s WWII aviation battlefield continue to educate and inspire generations to come. Together, they create long-term stability, allowing the Museum to care responsibly for historic assets and invest confidently in the future. You might think of annual giving as powering today’s flight, while planned giving helps chart the course ahead.

Many supporters choose to do both, making annual gifts to sustain current programs while including the Museum in their estate plans to extend their support beyond their lifetime. Others may find that while an annual gift isn’t possible right now, a planned gift offers a meaningful way to leave a legacy aligned with their passion for aviation, history, and education.

CREATING YOUR LEGACY

If you have ever thought about how your values might continue to make a difference in the future, planned giving may be a natural next step.

We invite you to explore options and resources at pearlharboraviationmuseumlegacy.org and discover how you can create a legacy in support of the Museum.

We are deeply grateful to every supporter who helps advance our mission through annual gifts, planned gifts, or both.

Your generosity ensures that the stories of courage, sacrifice, and innovation preserved at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum will continue to inspire generations for years to come.

WHAT CONNECTS YOU TO THE MUSEUM?