FAIRFAX, VA, December 1, 2005
The head of the Cold War Museum today stressed the need for contributions to help build a permanent home for the institution in the Washington, D.C., area and preserve the history of the 40-year conflict.
Francis Gary Powers, Jr., who was recently named Director by the Museum Board, reminded taxpayers that they can make year-end, tax-deductible donations to the museum, a 501c(3) non-profit organization. They may donate by check or money order to The Cold War Museum, P.O. Box 178, Fairfax, VA 22038, or online through "GuideStar" or "Just Give," both secure portals. Contributions can also be made through the Combined Federal Campaign. The Museum's number is 7475.
The Commonwealth of Virginia has allocated a $125,000 matching grant to the Museum, which must get financial help in order to receive the full grant award.
"We are at a critical stage of our development," said Powers. "Recently the Fairfax County Park Authority accepted our proposal to locate at the former Nike missile base in Lorton, Virginia, and negotiations are underway to occupy the site. Tax-deductible contributions, as well as artifact donations to the Museum, will ensure that future generations will remember Cold War events and personalities that forever altered our understanding of national security, international relations, and personal sacrifice for one's country."
Powers' father, Francis Gary Powers, was the pilot of a U2 "spy plane" that was downed over the Soviet Union, a major Cold War incident. His personal memorabilia provided the nucleus for a traveling exhibit that has toured throughout the world. The Museum's holdings have grown steadily with donations of historical documents, books, manuscripts and artifacts from various sources. Features planned for the Museum, in addition to exhibit halls, are an auditorium, picture gallery, library and study areas, seminar room, book and gift shop, and restaurant. An agreement has been signed with the Fairfax County Public Schools to collaborate on education grants, museum programs, and student projects.
A new member of the Museum Advisory Board is former Secretary of the Air Force Tom Reed, who joins such distinguished Board members as Sergei Khrushchev, son of the former Soviet premier; Dino Brugioni, renowned photographic interpreter; Joe Lentini, USS Liberty survivor, and Dave Albo, Virginia State Delegate for the Lorton district.
Also active is a Midwest branch of the Museum, based in Chicago and Milwaukee. A European branch was recently established in Berlin.
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Further information: Gary Powers, Jr., (703) 273-2381; e-mail,
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