88R14582 JRI-D
By: Hall S.R. No. 299
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum in
Terrell is celebrating its 20th anniversary as a freestanding
institution on November 8, 2023; and
WHEREAS, Established during World War II as part of the
Lend-Lease Act, the No. 1 British Flying Training School in Terrell
was one of six schools in the United States set up to support
England's wartime efforts by training pilots for the Royal Air
Force; between 1941 and 1945, more than 2,000 pilots attended the
school, and many of the British trainees formed lifelong bonds with
the residents of Terrell, who welcomed the student pilots into
their homes and their community; each year, there is a Remembrance
Day ceremony at Oakland Memorial Park to memorialize the 20 cadets
who passed away while training in Terrell; and
WHEREAS, The No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum was
started by former cadets with the mission to honor the sacrifices
made by the pilots, educate citizens about the cooperation between
Britain and America, and honor the connections made between the
cadets and the people of North Texas; aviation enthusiasts, history
buffs, and veterans alike are drawn to the museum's fascinating
holdings, which include artifacts, photographs, logbooks, aircraft
models, training materials, equipment, uniforms, and other
memorabilia; initially housed at the Terrell Municipal Airport, the
museum opened its location on Silent Wings Boulevard on November 8,
2003; and
WHEREAS, Since its founding, the No. 1 British Flying
Training School Museum has celebrated a little-known chapter of
World War II history while honoring the strong bond of friendship
between two great nations, and it is a pleasure to recognize this
important milestone in the history of the institution; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the 88th Texas Legislature
hereby commemorate the 20th anniversary of the No. 1 British Flying
Training School Museum at its current location and extend to its
volunteers, board of directors, and staff sincere best wishes for
the future; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the museum as an expression of high regard by the Texas
Senate.