The Barksdale Global Power Museum’s new permanent exhibit, “BAFB Women,” showcases the rich history of women in the Air Force. The grand opening took place on June 12, Veterans Day and the 76th anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, which allowed women to serve as regular members of the military.
Esther McGowin Blake, then 51, enlisted in the Army Air Corps minutes after women were eligible to enlist. A widow with two sons in the Army Air Corps, she decided to enlist after one of them was shot down over Belgium and went missing. Both of her sons survived the war, and she served until 1954.
Over time, women have taken on larger roles in all branches of the military. In 2015, the Department of Defense lifted the ban on women serving in combat. Today, there are more than 230,000 women in active duty, including 70,000 in the Air Force. Of those, more than 1,000 are pilots. Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost, commander of the 130,000-strong U.S. Transportation Command, is the Air Force’s highest-ranking woman.
Elizabeth Michaletti, museum director and curator, said visitors are interested in the history of Barksdale women and this exhibit answers many of their questions.
“The timeline is from the 1940s when the first women joined to 2024,” Michaletti said.
The collection of uniforms reflects the powerful role women have played in serving our country, from the uniforms of World War I Red Cross nurses to the uniform of retired Brigadier General Christine Goodwin, former commander of Barksdale’s 2nd Bombardment Wing, who spoke at the grand opening.
Separated from Barksdale Air Force Base, the museum features nine galleries. Its mission is to educate the public about Air Force history, particularly Barksdale’s famous 2nd Bombardment Wing, part of the 8th Air Force. The “Mighty Eighth” is the largest bomber wing in Air Force Global Strike Command. Supported by more than 15,000 active duty Air Force Reserve personnel and civilians, the 2nd Bombardment Wing was founded during World War I and has been based at Barksdale since 1963.
The 20 planes in the museum’s Airpark make up one of the largest collections of historic Air Force aircraft. World War II planes include the B-17 bomber, B-24 bomber, and P-51 Mustang. Cold War (1947-1991) planes include the B-52D and B-52G Stratofortress. There are also Mach 3+ SR-71 Blackbirds and B-1B Lancers.
Entry is free, but due to the high level of security at the base, you will need a pass to enter – someone who has a pass can sponsor you, or you can apply for one using the form on their website here.
Goodwin said he decided to join the Air Force at age 10 and was driven to succeed.
“My mantra is people, mission and pride. These priorities are universal and apply to both military and civilian organizations.”
“Women not only bring a different perspective and approach opportunities in a different way, but they also collaborate with others to make the team better,” Goodwin said.
