EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. — The first-ever F-15E Strike Eagle to be placed on public display has been added to the Air Force Armament Museum, according to Eglin Air Force Base.
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The aircraft, known as 86-184, was formally dedicated during a ceremony on April 10.
Eglin Air Force Base said the approximately 35-year-old jet served as a developmental test aircraft throughout its Air Force career with the 96th Test Wing and the 412th Test Wing.
The aircraft was also one of the oldest F-15E models still in the active fleet prior to its retirement.
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Retired Brig. Gen. Fran Hendricks, president of the museum foundation, said the aircraft holds a significant place in Air Force history.
“This Strike Eagle will take her rightful place here among the equally distinguished artifacts for the public to engage,” said Mr Hendricks.
Former Air Armament Center and Eglin commander Maj. Gen. Robert Chedister, who flew the aircraft, is recognized on the display with his name on the canopy.
“His (Chedister) name on the canopy is a lasting salute to a man who gave so much to the country he loved both in and out of uniform,” Mr Hendricks said.
Weapons system officer Lt. Col. Rich Bailey and maintainers Master Sgt. Vik Maharaj, Staff Sgt. Robert Lawson, and Staff Sgt. Benjamin Haag are also recognized on the aircraft.
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“This new and first of its kind edition to our museum is both a tribute to all who have served at Eglin and an inspiration to those who will follow,” Mr Hendricks said.
The Air Force Armament Museum is open to the public and features a wide range of historic aircraft and weapons systems connected to Eglin’s mission.
