Lake Charles, Louisiana – The City of Lake Charles is set to open a new exhibition featuring rare World War II fighter aircraft lithographs, signed by veteran pilots who served in the war. The exhibition, titled WWII Fighter Aircraft Lithographs, will be located on the first floor lobby of Lake Charles City Hall at 326 Pujo Street, and will be open to the public from Thursday, October 3, 2024, to Friday, November 29, 2024.
The exhibition consists of 17 aviation prints, each signed by WWII pilot veterans, showcasing a range of fighter aircraft used during the war. These prints were generously provided by local residents Jay and Brenda Delafield, and have been praised by Kevin Melton, Executive Director of the Chennault International Airport Authority. “We would like to especially thank our friends and long-time residents, Jay and Brenda Delafield, who graciously provided these pictures for all to see,” Melton stated.
To commemorate the exhibition’s opening, the City of Lake Charles will host a reception on Thursday, October 10, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm in the first-floor lobby of City Hall. The reception is free and open to the public, with light refreshments provided. Mayor Nic Hunter encouraged the community to attend, stating, “This exhibit offers our community a rare opportunity to connect with the legacy of those who fought for our freedom. I thank the Delafields for providing these assets for the public to enjoy.”
The exhibition is part of a new initiative launched by the City of Lake Charles to display quarterly exhibits with local connections on the first-floor lobby of City Hall. This initiative aims to promote the city’s history and culture by showcasing unique and interesting exhibits that are relevant to the community.
The WWII Fighter Aircraft Lithographs exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in aviation history, World War II, or the city’s cultural heritage. With its unique collection of signed lithographs and its convenient location in City Hall, this exhibition is an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to learn about and appreciate the city’s rich history.