JEANERETTE, La. – The Jeanerette Museum Board announces the history talk, "Flyboys of Selman Field."
The talk set for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 11 at the Jeanerette Museum explores the history of Selman Field in Monroe, La. The base was the only all-inclusive aviation training site in the United States during World War II.
Speaker Joey David will recount the history of the base from World War II until it was deactivated in 1947. Selman Army Airfield was the largest navigation school during its time. The site focused on a complete navigation course, pre-flight to advanced. The majority of aircraft flown at the field were Beech C-45 Expeditors, also known as the AT-7. Those completing the course could achieve a commission and navigators wings without ever leaving the field.
Over 15,000 navigators were trained at the field and flew in every theater of operations during the war. Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) squadrons were assigned to Selman in 1944.
David is currently pursuing his master's degree at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a major focus on museum curation and a minor on Louisiana from 1812 through 1865. His research focuses on Louisiana before and during the Civil War, but he also researches local histories throughout the state of Louisiana.
This history talk is being held free of charge and is suitable for an adult audience. Seating may be limited and taken on a first come, first serve basis.
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