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Military Room

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The Military Room offers a compelling look into a lesser-known chapter of World War II history—how kites played a strategic role in military operations. Long before the advent of radar, cordless communication, and the internet, kites were employed as practical tools for defense and training. This exhibit features original kites from the 1940s, including an impressive 13’ x 10’ barrage kite, once used to deter low-flying enemy aircraft. Also on display are the first two-line maneuverable target kites, designed to mimic enemy airplanes for anti-aircraft training. These innovative kites were not only functional but vital in preparing soldiers for combat scenarios. Adding further depth to the exhibit are authentic World War II military uniforms, on loan from the Ilwaco Heritage Museum and the Luethe Family. Vintage wartime posters and memorabilia enhance the atmosphere, offering visitors a vivid sense of the era.

 

The Military Room honors the ingenuity of wartime kite use and invites guests to consider how simple technologies like kites contributed to larger efforts in defense and communication. It's a fascinating glimpse into a piece of history where creativity met necessity in the skies.

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