AFMC Command News

Masks no longer required for visitors to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

  • Published
  • By Rob Bardua

DAYTON, Ohio – National Museum of the U.S. Air Force visitors, in accordance with new Department of Defense guidance, will no longer be required to wear masks as surrounding communities meet new health thresholds for COVID-19.

The new guidance, which can be viewed at www.defense.gov/News, designates three categories for masking and testing based on community health levels at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and in surrounding counties. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention established the new community standards, and currently the counties surrounding the museum are at a medium or yellow COVID-19 level. At these risk levels, a mask mandate is not required.

Visitors who wish to wear masks may still do so, and maintaining physical distancing continues to be highly recommended for all. In addition, cleaning procedures, sneeze guards at volunteer and cashier desks, and hand sanitizer stations will remain in place throughout the museum.

According to National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Director Mr. David Tillotson, this change in policy is welcome news but we must continue to remain vigilant. “We’re extremely pleased to be able to allow our visitors to enjoy the museum once again without masks, and we look forward to welcoming back those who have delayed their visit until this time,” said Tillotson. “However, we also realize that the pandemic is not over, and we encourage everyone to continue practicing good health and safety protection measures.”

Health and safety protection measures are subject to change, and visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s website and social media outlets for the most up to date status before visiting.

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio, is the world’s largest military aviation museum. With free admission and parking, the museum features more than 350 aerospace vehicles and missiles and thousands of artifactsamid more than 19 acres of indoor exhibit space. Each year thousands of visitors from around the world come to the museum. For more information, visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.

NOTE TO PUBLIC: For more information, contact the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force at (937) 255-3286.

NOTE TO MEDIA: For more information, contact Rob Bardua at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Public Affairs Division at (937) 255-1386.