New Exhibit Highlights Women’s Role in Air Force History

The Barksdale Global Power Museum recently unveiled its newest permanent exhibit, the “BAFB Women’s Exhibit,” showcasing the remarkable history of women in the Air Force. The exhibit’s grand opening took place on June 12, coinciding with Veterans Recognition Day and the 76th anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, a pivotal moment that allowed women to serve as regular members of the armed forces.

One of the earliest trailblazers highlighted in the exhibit is Esther McGowin Blake, who wasted no time in joining the Army Air Force at the age of 51 shortly after women became eligible to enlist. Motivated by the harrowing experience of having one of her sons go missing after being shot down over Belgium during the war, Blake served until 1954, with both her sons ultimately surviving the conflict.

The role of women in the military has evolved significantly over the years, culminating in the Pentagon’s decision to lift the ban on women serving in combat in 2015. Presently, there are over 230,000 women serving on active military duty, with 70,000 in the Air Force alone, including more than 1,000 pilots. Notably, General Jacqueline Van Ovost, the commander of the 130,000-member U.S. Transportation Command, holds the distinction of being the highest-ranking woman in the Air Force.

Elizabeth Micaletti, the museum’s director and curator, emphasized the importance of the exhibit in addressing visitors’ curiosity about women’s history at Barksdale. The exhibit features a comprehensive timeline spanning from the 1940s to the present day, encapsulating the diverse contributions of women in the Air Force.

In addition to historical narratives, the exhibit showcases a collection of uniforms that symbolize the increasing roles women have played in serving their country. From a World War I Red Cross nurse uniform to the attire of retired Brigadier General Kristin Goodwin, former Commander of the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale, the exhibit pays homage to the legacy of women in the military.

The Barksdale Global Power Museum, an independent entity from the Barksdale Air Force Base, boasts nine galleries dedicated to educating the public about Air Force history, with a particular focus on the renowned 2nd Bomb Wing, part of the 8th Air Force. The museum’s airpark features a remarkable array of historic Air Force airplanes, including iconic models from World War II like B-17 and B-24 bombers, as well as Cold War-era aircraft such as the B-52D and B-52G Stratofortress.

While admission to the museum is free, visitors are required to obtain a pass due to the stringent security measures in place at the base. The museum’s rich collection of aircraft and exhibits serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of women in the Air Force and the pivotal role they continue to play in shaping military history.