Welcome to the Capt. Manuel Cervantes Jr. Building

The cost of maintenance of peace of the world is much greater than the military budget would indicate. There is a staggering amount of personal suffering expended in the preservation of democratic freedom.

Col. Paul K. Carlton, Commander

305th Bomb Wing, Bunker Hill AFB

The Hoosier Cold War Gallery is poised to be the only permanent exhibit in Indiana dedicated to the Cold War and one of only a handful in the U.S. to focus on military aviation. It’s creation is vital as this story is in danger of being forgotten. Within this new exhibit, history, art, and science will unite to give guests a greater under stand of the era that made America a super power.

 

Regardless of their interest, the gallery will allow visitors to explore the story in full or follow a specific track. From the headlines that defined the era to deep dives into the people, events, and places that shaped the Cold War, there will be something for everyone.

 

Donations to begin Phases 3 & 4 are underway but we are long way off from bringing this space to life. Both financial and in-kind donations will allow the GAM to meet it’s unique mission. The quality exhibits and interactives these stories deserve cannot happen without your donation.

 

By giving today, you ensure the stories of yesterday continue to touch the lives of generations to come.

Donors are an integral part of the Grissom Air Museum’s success and the preservation of these stories. While we understand your contribution comes from a genuine love of military and aviation history, we cannot help be thank those who give to this important project

 

Our donor wall will be located in this hallway and as guests enter, they will be immediately aware of those who made their visit possible. The following levels will be recognized:

  • Airmen – $250.00 to $999.99
  • Crew Chief – $1,000.00 to $4,999.99
  • DSO – $5,000.00 to $14,999.99
  • Navigator – $15,000.00 to $24,999.99
  • Pilot – $25,000.00 and up

Naming opportunities exist for the follow exhibition areas:

  • $3,000.00 – Bunker Hill/ Grissom AFB Pictorial History (section)
  • $5,000.00 – Deep Dive exhibition
  • $7,000.00 – Stand alone exhibits (4 available)
  • $10,000.00 – Half decade or B-58 exhibit (section)
A picture show the B-58 being backed into the Cervantes Building, backlit by the daylight.
3/4 side view of the B-58 inside the Cervantes Building, fully lit with its new blue epoxy floor.
Pencil Drawing of the proposed Cold War Gallery
Colored and updated detailed drawing of proposed exhibit area

Ways to Give

The Grissom Air Museum is grateful to the individuals, groups, foundations, and businesses who have contributed to the first and second phases of the Cervantes Building.  Without their support, the Hoosier Cold War Gallery would not be possible.

If you are interested in supporting any part of phase three or four (please see below) through a financial donation, you can make payment the following ways:

All donations to the Hoosier Cold War Gallery/ Cervantes Building project are 100% tax deductible as defined by the IRS.  Questions regarding your deduction should be directed to an accountant or financial advisor.

Phase 3 Plans

Focuses on the research, development, and installation needs for the exhibition space. It will be designed to last at least fifteen to twenty years with flexibility for new elements to be added periodically to keep the space fresh and our artifacts safe. Include areas such as analog and digital interactives, secure artifact displays, and ADA-friendly interpretation signs.

  • B-58 renovation: $20,000
  • Exhibit Design & Development: $125,000
  • Technology Support & Design: $15,000
  • Contingency Fund: $15,000

As our largest structure, the Cervantes Building provides the space for advertising and celebration. This phase focuses on both engaging exterior spaces while continuing the B-58’s story outside of the building. This phase includes signage, a new home for the B-58 Rocket Sled, a memorial garden, and a themed mural.

  • Building Signage: $30,000
  • Mural: $15,000
  • Landscaping: $30,000
  • B-58 Rocket Sled Outdoor exhibit: $20,000
  • Utility expansion: $5,000
  • Contingency Fund: $20,000