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Maximum Effort: The Campaign for the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

Staff Report

Wednesday, April 20th, 2022

On Thursday, May 21st, at 10:30 AM The Board of Trustees of the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force will announce the public phase of the organization’s multi-million-dollar capital campaign, Maximum Effort: The Campaign for the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. Gifts to date include Chatham County.

SPLOST 7 funds and 60 private gifts from individuals, foundations and corporations across the country totaling $7.3 million. 

“It was 80 years this past January when Savannah, GA, and the 8th Force would be forever tied together by history. Today young Americans are still on duty in the USAF 8th AF around the globe, defending our nation's freedom.  The world’s most powerful Air Force,” said John O’Neil, Chairman of the museum Board of Trustees. He added, “I invite you to join my family and me in supporting Maximum Effort –The Campaign for the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. Maximum Effort is the single most important project the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force has ever set out to complete since our doors opened on May 14, 1996.   This strategic journey started in 2019 and we are ready to move it forward with a great tailwind.” 

Maximum Effort fulfills the museum’s vision for its future by satisfying three priorities: Improving the Visitor Experience; Developing and Managing the Permanent Collection; and Endowment Growth.  The transformational effort positions the Mighty Eighth Museum to fulfill its mission for years to come. 

Ground will be broken on a new wing to house new galleries and exhibitions later this year.  The project is expected to take two years to complete.

“Donors have been generous throughout the campaign’s quiet phase, for which the museum is grateful.  Their investment in a compelling case and unique mission has positioned Maximum Effort to achieve, and likely exceed, its $10 million goal,” said Scott W. Loehr, the Mighty Eighth Museum’s President & CEO.

To learn more about Maximum Effort and to support the campaign, visit the museum’s website at mightyeighth.org.  Thank you for ensuring that the history and lessons of the Mighty Eighth Air Force and World War II are preserved and shared.