Hangar 25 Air Museum Event Images

Hangar 25 Air Museum honors Col. Harry A. Spannaus at the
unveiling of a display case commemorating his Air Force career

Col. Spannaus was born on Sept. 1, 1930 in Hutchison, Minnesota. He served 26 years in the military, and ended his military career, after serving seven years in Big Spring, at Webb Air Force Base in 1978. He was the final Wing Commander at Webb. He was a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force who accumulated over 9,000 hours of single engine and fighter time, serving over 12 of those years in foreign countries.
As part of his flight time logged, while serving in Korea and Southeast Asia, he flew 222 combat missions over hostile territories. Throughout his military career, he was awarded 40 decorations for distinguished combat flight and exemplary service. A small glimpse into his awards includes: 16 Air Medals, the Bronze Star with Valor, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, two Legion of Merits, and many others reflecting his accomplishments and service over 26 years.

This brief bio courtesy: Amanda Duforat.

Hangar 25 Air Museum proudly hosted this event honoring Colonel Spannaus on the occasion of the installation of a permanent Museum display case chronicling his career. Thanks to the many volunteers who worked tirelessly to make this event a great success, especially: Amber Stokes, Martha Vierra, Judy Little and Lorie Little.

Click on any image on this page to view a larger one. Photos courtesy: Bruce Schooler.

Colonel Spannaus with other Webb AFB Alumni.

   Front row: Colonel Harry A. Spannaus, former Wing Commander at Webb AFB, through Base closure.
   Back row: L to R: Colonel Jim Little, attended Undergraduate Pilot Training at Webb AFB; Colonel Jerry S. Grimes, former Base Commander at Webb AFB, through Base closure; Lt Colonel Vaughn Martin, Instructor Pilot at Webb AFB.

Colonel Spannaus displays his many military decorations.

Colonel Spannaus is accompanied by 7 of his 25 great grandchildren.

Project Manager Gloria McDonald hosts the commemorative event for Colonel Spannaus.

Colonel Spannaus enjoys being in the company of family and friends.

Colonel Spannaus remembering a humorous event in his career.

All the persons in this photo are currently serving or have served as Directors on the Hangar 25 Air Museum Board of Directors.

Friends and family enjoying the celebration of a distinguished career.

Gloria McDonald describes the process of assembling Colonel Spannaus' career memorabilia.

Harry and his great grandchildren listen attentively to the presentation.

Big Spring Herald retired reporter Marj Carpenter joins other guests awaiting the unveiling of the display.

In a quiet moment, Colonel Spannaus reminisces about a long, rewarding career.

Family members travelled to the event to honor their patriarch.