September 3-8, 2013, MAMAT hosted 'Sentimental Journey,' a World War II B-17G operated by the Commemorative Air Force based at Falcon Field in Mesa, AZ. During the six day stay in Sioux City, crew members were able to perform maintenance on the aircraft as well as give static tours and several booked flights.

Over 680 visitors paid $10.00 to gain admission to the museum and go into the B-17 to see where the bomber crews performed their specific jobs which helped win the war. An estimated 500-600 came to the museum area just to see the classic war bird.

Sentimental Journey is one of approximately 12 B-17 bombers still flying. There were over 12,000 produced for the war effort. The original model had 3 - 30 cal guns and 3 - 50 caliber guns. The last model, the B-17G, was equipped with 13 - 50 caliber guns and carried a bomb load of 18,000 pounds. The Mid America Museum of Aviation & Transportation hopes to host additional aircraft in 2014.

By Pam Mickelson

As you walk into the museum the R4360 could be one of the most impressive sites you'll see.  The engine towers above most displays -- only matching the height of the United 727 cockpit. The R4360 at the museum is on loan from Melvin & Judy Vavra of Elk Point, SD.

Hello, we are interns from Morningside College and are happy to make a short report on the first Expo held at the museum.  We understand it was formerly a Pancake Breakfast and Fly-In -- but we helped Rick Alter, Carla Edgington, Pam Mickelson, and Larry Finley publicize the event as an Expo -- showcasing additional forms of transportation at  the museum.   One of our intern predecessor's, Jen Noel, Graphic Design major at Morningside College designed the Expo logo and marketing materials. 

The Gilchrist Foundation has awarded a capital campaign grant of $54,000 to the Mid America Museum of Aviation and Transportation to help fund an education and research center upgrade to the Fed Ex Boeing 727 aircraft display.

Plans call for multiple learning stations, a theater style area, library and research center, and age appropriate transportation lessons.  Additional work in weatherproofing the jet way, electric, heating, and cooling upgrades, and renovation to the inside of the plane are part of the education center project.    The project is part of the museum's strategic five-year plan. 

The Gilchrist Foundation furthers the philanthropy of the late Jocelyn Gilchrist and her family foundation; the foundation is in trust at Security National Bank and gives primarily to the arts, environmental protection and conservation, animal/wildlife welfare, and children, youth, and social services.    The project is expected to take $104,000.  Additional fundraising is needed to complete the center.