Cradle Of Aviation Celebrates 50 Years Of The F-14 Tomcat

The Cradle of Aviation Museum and Education Center is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the F-14 Tomcat, one of the most iconic Navy fighters ever built on Long Island. While Hollywood may have cemented the F-14 in the public eye with movies like "Top Gun," it was Grumman engineers on Long Island that designed and built the famous aircraft.

In honor of the 50th anniversary of the storied aircraft, the Cradle of Aviation is expanding its already robust F-14 collection. The collection already includes the third F-14 ever built and the oldest surviving, flying from 1971-1990, and two F-14 cockpits, nose and flight suits. To enhance the collection in honor of the anniversary, a temporary exhibit will open this month with never-before-seen artifacts taken out of storage, such as concept models and photographs. Objects will be on display until December 2020.

Soon to travel to the museum for restoration and permanent display is the last F-14 to ever fly, number 711 of 712 made, from the Grumman Memorial Park in Bethpage. In addition to the exhibit, the museum will host a dinner on Aug. 21 at 6, followed by a discussion with distinguished guests to be determined. More information about the F-14 transport and dinner will be provided as the celebration unfolds.