The Wright Museum is pleased to present a new special exhibit for its 2026 season. Highlighting the vital and historic role of Civil Air Patrol (CAP), “Always Vigilant: Civil Air Patrol from WWII through Today” will run at the museum from May 1 to October 31, 2026.
CAP celebrates its 85th anniversary on December 1, marking its founding just days before the U.S. entered World War II in 1941. As the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, CAP continues to uphold its mission of aerospace education, cadet programs, and emergency services.
As we commemorate America’s 250th birthday, it’s also an opportune moment to reflect on the history of Civil Air Patrol as a premier volunteer organization in the United States – an organization characterized by profound patriotism and remarkable achievements in service to the nation.
In honor of both historic anniversaries, this special 6-month exhibit examines the role of CAP in civil defense, emergency response, and other missions throughout its history. Perfect for all ages, the exhibit will feature historic objects, videos and interactives.
Dedication Ceremony
A special ceremony to dedicate the exhibit will take place at the Wright Museum on Saturday, May 16th at 10 am. Beginning outside on the museum campus, the event will kick off with a CAP flyover. Guests will then proceed into the museum’s DuQuoin Education Center, led by bagpiper Capt. Ethan Cray and two color guards. The ceremony will feature guest speakers including NH Wing Commander Col. Nic Goupil and CAP Northeast Region Historian Lt. Col. Keith Raymond. The ceremony is free for CAP members and their families, as well as museum members. The public is encouraged to attend, included with regular museum admission.
The Wright Museum of World War II, located at 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, NH, opens to the public for the 2026 season on Friday, May 1. The museum remains open daily through October 31. Museum hours are Monday-Saturday: 10am-4pm and Sundays: 12-4pm.
The museum is a private non-profit educational institution focusing on both the American home front and war fronts during World War II. For more information, contact the museum at 603-569-1212 or visit the museum’s website at www.wrightmuseum.org.
Photo Courtesy – CAP NH Wing Public Affairs
