(Washington, D.C.) On Wednesday, May 11th, the American Air Museum in Britain hosted the first ever British-American Partnership Gala to celebrate the special partnership between the two countries and to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. The gala was held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Hosting the gala were Bill and Dorothy McSweeney of Washington, DC. The evening's honoree was Major General Ramsay Potts, USAF (Ret) who was recognized for his service and lifetime achievements. Gen. Potts is a decorated B-24 bomber pilot and a founding partner of the D.C. law firm of Shaw Pittman Potts & Trowbridge. Major General Potts flew in many air raids against the Germans in WWII, including the 1943 attack on the Ploesti oilfields. General Potts also flew with actor Jimmy Stewart.

The Tuskegee Airmen and the WASPs (Women Airforce Service Pilots) were also recognized that evening. The Tuskegee Airmen made history on March 7th, 1942 by becoming the first African-American pilots in the USAF, which ultimately led to the desegregation of the Armed Forces in 1948. The WASPs flew thousands of combat planes from factories in the US to military bases across the world. Their missions paved the way for women to be integrated into the Armed Forces.

Other attendees included His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, as well as Sir David Manning, British Ambassador to the U.S., Sen. Ted Stevens, and Nick Chabraja, CEO of General Dynamics.

About the American Air Museum in Britain:
The American Air Museum in Britain, located in Duxford, England, stands as a memorial to the 30,000 American soldiers who died flying from British airfields. It is the only museum outside of the United States to honor those courageous airmen. All proceeds from the gala will support exhibits, restoration efforts, and educational programs at The American Air Museum in Britain.

Contacts:
Carrie Collins, (301) 664-9000 x41 carriehcollins@aol.com
For more information: http://aam.iwm.org.uk/

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