On May 15, 2026, invited guests, VIPs and City and Civic leaders gathered at the new Hickory Aviation Museum, Hickory NC to witness the ribbon cutting ceremony officially opening the museum! Speakers included long-time benefactor Mr. Frank Drendel, former two-time Blue Angel retired Commander Frank Weisser, USN, and City of Hickory Mayor Hank Guess and in front of 200 guests the ribbon was cut by museum Co-Founders Kregg Kirby and Kyle Kirby. What started as an idea and a dream 30 plus years ago, became reality!
