Ohio Air & Space Hall of Fame and Learning Center

Thanks to the foresight and generosity of the late, legendary North American Aviation Columbus plant historian, Nolan Leatherman, the Ohio Air & Space Hall of Fame and Learning Center archives now steward over a wealth of his company images, film reels, records, etc. We've had little time to even scratch the surface of these treasures but, as an artist, this b&w 8x10 glossy of a single-seat, four-engine design concept rendering captivated my imagination. What a great homebuilder kit this would make, eh? Seriously, the original drawing was by a company artist named Hood. I would love to know more of this artist if anyone has any good intel.

The OAS was honored to host the late USN Ensign Jesse Brown's grandson, Jamal Knight, as our featured presenter for a screening of the movie "DEVOTION" earlier this year. Ensign Brown is among those the OAS considers our "adopted Ohioans." May he rest in peace.

On this day, the U.S. Navy lost one of its most remarkable young officers. Ensign Jesse LeRoy Brown was killed in action during the Korean War after crash-landing his damaged Corsair while protecting Marines at the Chosin Reservoir.

Born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Brown rose from poverty with an early fascination for flight and a determination that pushed past the barriers of segregated schools, limited opportunity, and constant resistance. He worked his way through Ohio State University, joined the V-5 Aviation Cadet Program, and earned his wings on October 21, 1948, becoming a national figure as he stepped into a role the Navy had long denied men who looked like him.

By late 1950, Brown had flown 20 combat missions with Fighter Squadron 32 aboard USS Leyte. On December 4, enemy fire forced him down on a frozen mountainside behind enemy lines. His wingman, Lt. j.g. Thomas Hudner, intentionally crashed his own aircraft in a desperate attempt to save him. Brown’s final words were, “Tell Daisy I love her," and have endured as a testament to his courage, clarity, and humanity in the final moments of his life.

Brown’s sacrifice inspired future generations of aviators, including Frank E. Petersen, who became the first Black Marine Corps aviator and general. The Navy later honored Brown by commissioning USS Jesse L. Brown (FF-1089), ensuring that his story would continue to sail with the fleet.

Today, we honor a pilot whose skill, discipline, and resolve challenged the limits placed before him and whose service stands as a lasting example of character in the face of adversity.

A tragic loss of one of Ohio's finest...

Some cool Ohio aviation facts here from our partners at KOSU!

As the headlines of this announcement hit the interweb, I've fielded a couple of inquiries as to if this means Central Ohio, and specifically the Ohio Air & Space Hall of Fame and Learning Center, are included in this discussion/legislative effort to expand the boundaries of NAHA.
To be clear, at this date we have received zero Federal support for our $4 million-plus capital campaign, nor has Senator Husted, Representative Turner, or any other Federal officials reached out to the OAS about this expansion, nor with regards to providing funding or other campaign support. Of course we would welcome the addition of federal support to our goal of providing a workforce development center and community showpiece with the renovation of the historic original Port Columbus Air Terminal. It certainly qualifies as a nationally significant aviation site.

Husted leads bill to expand Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park - Senator Husted July 25, 2025 “More than 120 years ago, the Wright brothers pioneered their aviation work and built the world’s first airplane in Dayton. I’m proud to support efforts that keep Dayton Aviation Heritage National Park showcasing its accomplishments and sharing Ohio’s rich history with visitors...