Speaker Series | First Battle of the Cold War: The Airlift to Save Berlin

Date: Saturday, Jan 27, 2024 | 11:00AM to 12:00PM
Location: Air & Space Museum
Categories: Lecture, Special Events

Join us in the Harrison Ford Theater for a presentation about the Berlin Airlift and learn about the causes of the struggle for Berlin, what it took to keep the city supplied and the people and airplanes that accomplished what so many thought was impossible. This talk will help visitors gain a deeper appreciation of how the Berlin Airlift, which happened 75 years ago, has shaped the world we live in today.

Pre-Purchase Tickets

At the end of World War II, Berlin was a city in ruins, yet it was the first hot point of the Cold War as the U.S., Britain, France and the Soviet Union clashed over control of the city and the future of Europe. In June 1948 the Soviets closed off all access to Berlin, except by air. Faced with the possibility of starting World War III if they failed, the western allies were determined to supply Berlin with all of the food, coal and materials to keep the city’s inhabitants alive. The only tool at their disposal was a fleet of unarmed cargo aircraft and aircrews drawn from around the globe. The effort turned former enemies into friends and showed the world what people will endure to be free.