History Presentation Cat Tales – Stories of the PBY in the Pacific Saturday, September 13 2025
Doors Open at 0800am Presentation Begins at 0900am
The PBY Catalina is an amphibious aircraft that was involved in some of the most critical missions of World War II. PBYs were used for reconnaissance, bombing missions, anti-submarine warfare, convoy escort duties, search and rescue missions, and as a cargo transport. There are many tales of unique missions, dangerous rescues, and night attacks associated with this great aircraft and the men who flew it. One PBY pilot was awarded the Medal of Honor for a daring rescue of several downed pilots. Others went on to distinguished careers in public service, including one who served as the Governor of the State of Colorado. A PBY also played an important role in the rescue of survivors of the USS Indianapolis whose sinking was one of the worst U.S. naval disasters of World War II.
On Saturday, September 13th, at 9:00 am, museum docent and retired U.S. Air Force Flight Surgeon Colonel Dave Schall will present the multi-faceted history the PBY and the amazing stories of several of the pilots who flew them. Weather permitting, the presentation will be followed by a flight demonstration of the museum’s PBY.
Due to an unexpected closure of the runway adjacent to the museum, the flybys will be adjusted to conform with the air traffic pattern. The museum is working with the FAA control tower to ensure that the PBY flybys will come as close as possible to the museum.
While the flight path of the flybys may be adjusted, the museum will be selecting four lucky attendees of the presentation to fly in the PBY!!! This is a once in a lifetime opportunity! Don’t miss it!