Join the Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum for the opening of its newest exhibit:
TOPGUN, Beyond The Movie: The Real Navy Fighter Weapons School
The exhibit explores the history of the U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School and the real-world training and people behind the famous TOPGUN name. PNWNAM Topgun Press Release
The story has a special connection to Whidbey Island. Captain Frank W. Ault, for whom Ault Field was named, recommended that the Navy establish an Advanced Fighter Weapons School for the F-8 and F-4. That program would become known as TOPGUN. PNWNAM Topgun Press Release
On opening day, special guest Dave “Bio” Baranek will be at the museum from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM to answer questions and autograph his books.
Baranek was an aerial combat instructor at the Navy Fighter Weapons School and participated in the making of the movie Top Gun, flying aerial sequences used in the film and serving as a dialogue advisor. PNWNAM Topgun Press Release
The exhibit opens to the public Sunday, October 11, and will remain on display through Monday, May 31, 2027.
Date and Time
Sunday Oct 11, 2026
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM PDT
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Dave “Bio” Baranek book signing and Q&A:
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Location
Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum
545 Ault Field Road, Building D, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
Fees/Admission
Current museum admission is: Adult: $15
Senior 60+: $13
Veterans: $13
Youth/Students ages 6–17: $8
Blue Star military families: Complimentary admission with valid military ID.
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Contact Information
Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum
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