TITLE: Commemorating the 20th anniversary of the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum as a freestanding institution.

SUMMARY: Commemorating the 20th anniversary of the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum as a freestanding institution.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum in Terrell is celebrating its 20th anniversary as a freestanding institution on November 8, 2023; and WHEREAS, Established during World War II as part of the Lend-Lease Act, the No. 1 British Flying Training School in Terrell was one of six schools in the United States set up to support England's wartime efforts by training pilots for the Royal Air Force; between 1941 and 1945, more than 2,000 pilots attended the school, and many of the British trainees formed lifelong bonds with the residents of Terrell, who welcomed the student pilots into their homes and their community; each year, there is a Remembrance Day ceremony at Oakland Memorial Park to memorialize the 20 cadets who passed away while training in Terrell; and WHEREAS, The No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum was started by former cadets with the mission to honor the sacrifices made by the pilots, educate citizens about the cooperation between Britain and America, and honor the connections made between the cadets and the people of North Texas; aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and veterans alike are drawn to the museum's fascinating holdings, which include artifacts, photographs, logbooks, aircraft models, training materials, equipment, uniforms, and other memorabilia; initially housed at the Terrell Municipal Airport, the museum opened its location on Silent Wings Boulevard on November 8, 2003; and WHEREAS, Since its founding, the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum has celebrated a little-known chapter of World War II history while honoring the strong bond of friendship between two great nations, and it is a pleasure to recognize this important milestone in the history of the institution; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 88th Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the 20th anniversary of the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum at its current location and extend to its volunteers, board of directors, and staff sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the museum as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Bell of Kaufman Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 550 was adopted by the House on March 14, 2023, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House