At the Richard I. Bong Museum, experience “Marge,” our beautifully restored P-38 Lightning, stand beside our M60 tank, and enjoy the scenic hiking trail just beyond our grounds. Step into history and immerse yourself in powerful, firsthand accounts from veterans spanning World War II to today.

The Real Top Gun- Born in Superior, Wisconsin, Dick Bong rose to national prominence as America’s greatest fighter ace. During World War II, he shot down 40 enemy aircraft in the Pacific Theater, securing his place in history. Discover the life, courage, and legacy of this remarkable young man.

 Plan Your Visit- Join us for guided or self-guided tours and connect with the history that shaped our world. Walk with heroes—visit today. More than a museum, we are a living tribute to those who served, both on the front lines and the home front. Meet our volunteers, hear their stories, and leave inspired.

We host a variety of veteran-focused programs throughout the year, including a Boundary Waters retreat, the service of over 300 Thanksgiving meals annually, and commemorative events for major military holidays. Our outreach extends into the community through veteran-led presentations and demonstrations at schools and organizations. Our educational programs welcome students from across northern Wisconsin and Minnesota, offering hands-on learning through authentic artifacts and direct engagement with veteran experiences. When schools can’t come to us, we bring history to them.

Beyond our local impact, we are committed to a global mission. Mission Marge, launched in 2024, began as an effort to locate Dick Bong’s P-38, “Marge,” which crashed in Papua New Guinea. Since discovering the site, we have worked to honor its historical significance while expanding humanitarian efforts in nearby communities. We look forward to welcoming you any time of the year!  https://bongcenter.org/