Photo collection of USAF photographer featured at Veterans Museum in March

Leon Pleasant served in the United States Air Force (USAF) as a photographer beginning at the end of World War II. During his long career, he took many photographs of historical and experimental aircraft, including those flown by famed USAF pilot Chuck Yeager, who was the first human to break the sound barrier in the Bell X-1 in 1947. Yeager also had a cameo appearance in the movie “The Right Stuff” which recounted his service as a mentor to the NASA astronaut program.

A portion of Pleasant’s personal collection has been donated to the Allamakee County Veterans Museum. The collection of 150 photos has been converted to digital images which can be better displayed and viewed on a large video screen. His collection will be presented for viewing Saturday, March 8 at 10 a.m. and again Friday, March 14 at 1:30 p.m.

The Veterans Museum is located at 105 Allamakee Street in Waukon. The public is invited to attend. There is no admission or membership charge. The facility is handicapped accessible.

Other videos and veteran interviews are also available for viewing by museum visitors. Regular winter tour hours are Fridays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and on program days. Special tours are also available by appointment for both groups and individuals.