The Air Force Armament Museum welcomed a historic addition April 10 with the dedication of an F-15E Strike Eagle — the first of its kind ever placed on public display.
Aircraft No. 86-184, a roughly 35-year-old jet, served its entire career as a developmental test aircraft with the 96th and 412th Test Wings at Eglin Air Force Base. It was also one of the oldest F-15Es in the active fleet before its retirement. “This Strike Eagle will take her rightful place here among the equally distinguished artifacts for the public to engage,” said retired Brig. Gen. Fran Hendricks, president of the museum foundation.
The aircraft also honors those who flew and maintained it. Former Eglin commander Maj. Gen. Robert Chedister, who piloted 86-184, is commemorated with his name displayed on the canopy. “His 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,” 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. “This new and first-of-its-kind addition to our museum is both a tribute to all who have served at Eglin and an inspiration to those who will follow,” Hendricks added.
