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Idaho Museum Dedicated To WWII Aviator Needs New Home

Pappy Ace
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An obscure yet fascinating museum in Idaho is looking for a new home and, perhaps, a sponsor.

The Coeur d'Alene Press reports that Richard Le Francis runs the Pappy Boyington Veterans Museum in Hayden with a couple colleagues. Boyington was a World War II flying ace and Medal of Honor winner who was born in Coeur d'Alene.

When Le Francis helped start the museum, he moved into the only available building near the airport: an old structure owned by the Fraternal Order of Eagles. It was in bad shape and the Eagles wanted to have it demolished, but Le Francis convinced them to let him lease it.

The Eagles have terminated the museum's lease, which will expire December 31. Le Francis says the museum is cash-strapped and not sure where to go next.

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