Welcome to the Perrin AFB Historical Museum, a treasure trove of history nestled within Denison, Texas. This museum is dedicated to preserving the rich legacy of Perrin Air Force Base, which played a pivotal role in both World War II and the Cold War. The story of Perrin Field begins in the spring of 1941, when visionary leaders of Grayson County worked tirelessly to secure a government installation in their region. Initially considered for a munitions plant, the site was eventually designated as a basic flying training school in cooperation with the United States Army Air Corps expansion program.
Perrin Field officially opened during the turmoil following the attack on Pearl Harbor. Major Robert Warren was the first to arrive, finding a landscape of mud and half-constructed buildings. Despite these challenges, Warren and his team transformed the field into an operational training school, equipped with BT-13 aircraft, known affectionately as ‘Vibrators’. The base trained tens of thousands of pilots and crews, serving as a cornerstone of American military preparedness.
In the 1950s, Perrin AFB expanded its operations during the Korean War, establishing a radar station to guide interceptor aircraft. Throughout its history, the base was home to many notable figures, including Sully Sullenberger, the celebrated pilot of the ‘Miracle on the Hudson’, who attributes much of his formative years to his time in Denison.
The museum today is a testament to the dedication of the Perrin Field Historical Society, showcasing artifacts and stories that bring the past to life. Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to the base’s history, including a special section honoring Sullenberger. The museum also features commemorative coins, each telling a story of the base’s significant moments and the people who made them possible.
From its humble beginnings to its role as a military training hub, Perrin Air Force Base not only shaped the skies but also the lives of countless individuals. As you walk through the museum, you’ll step back in time, gaining a deeper understanding of the base’s contribution to our nation’s history.
