Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center celebrates 20 years

Aug. 26—SUPERIOR — The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a three-day celebration, "Soaring into Our Twenties," Sept. 22-24. The event will include half-price admission, bikes, Betties, bags, barks and beers.

Bong Center family, staff, museum members and volunteers will meet from 5-8 p.m.Sept. 22 for an invitation-only homecoming event.

Everyone can enjoy half-price admission to the museum Sept. 23. The day will include a vintage military weapons show from noon to 7 p.m. and a "Pint Full of History" program focused on Richard I. Bong, the World War II fighter pilot from Poplar who shot down a record 40 enemy aircraft during his time of service and was awarded more than 24 medals, including the Congressional Medal of Honor. A social hour runs from 5-6:30 p.m. Historians Mike O'Conner, author of "America's Ace of Aces" and documentary filmmaker John Andersion, "Shooting Star: The Story of Richard I. Bong," will recount the life of America's Ace of Aces from 6:30-8 p.m.

The Sept. 24 events will be hosted by the Border Town Betties.

An inaugural bean bag tournament, "Maverick and Goose Top Gun Shootout," will be held beginning at 9:30 a.m. The first 32 teams to pay will be accepted. Registration is currently open. The cost is $35 per team with 100% payback prize and a four-game minimum. The winning team will receive $800. Visit the website

www.bongcenter.org

, call 715-392-7151 or email

gidley@bongcenter.org

to register or for more information.

A motorcycle and kids bicycle show will take place from noon to 2 p.m. with prizes for the best vintage, best custom and best military-themed motorcycles for adults and the most patriotic pedal powered bike for kids. Email

emmaw@bongcenter.org

to register a bike.

A Puppy Dog Parade takes place from 1-3 p.m. Treats and water are provided. The dog show will wind up with a parade around the grounds of the Bong Center and two dogs will be awarded "Maverick and Goose" awards for the favorite large and small dogs. Email

emmaw@bongcenter.org

to register. Entries must be submitted by Sept. 7.

A launch party for Warrior Brewing Company's Patriot IPA "Ace of Aces" Edition will cap off the events. Warrior Brewing is a local brewery operated solely by veterans. Their latest batch will honor Richard I. Bong. The new IPA will be on sale from noon to 7 p.m. along with a selection of wines and soft drinks and area food trucks.

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