Sweet Patriotism

Byron, Georgia celebrates the sweet breath of freedom every day thanks to its location less than 10 miles from Robins Air Force Base. And if you are looking to explore a bit of military history, Byron is a good starting point.

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With a collection that includes a replica of an early 1896 glider to modern-era aircraft such as the B-1B bomber, the SR-71 Blackbird, the U-2 Dragon Lady and F-15 Eagle, the Museum of Aviation is the second largest museum in the U.S. Air Force and the fourth most visited museum in the Department of Defense. Exhibits tell the story of aviation events from World War II to the present, including depicting the mission of Robins Air Force Base, the largest industrial employer in Georgia. The on-site Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame displays the achievements and artifacts of civilian and military men and women who made significant contributions to aviation in Georgia. Located adjacent to Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins, the museum is free to visit.

Byron’s location on I-75 makes it extremely convenient to plan day trips to other military sites in Middle Georgia. Andersonville National Historic Site, about 50 miles southwest of Byron tells the story of the Camp Sumter military prison, one of the largest Confederate military prisons during the Civil War. During the 14 months the prison existed, more than 45,000 Union soldiers were confined there and almost 13,000 died there. Today, Andersonville National Historic Site is a memorial to all American prisoners of war throughout the nation's history and is the site of the National Prisoner of War Museum.

About 55 miles south of Byron, Georgia Veterans State Park in Cordele features a museum with aircraft (including a Boeing B-29A), armored vehicles, uniforms, weapons, medals and other items from the Revolutionary War through the Gulf War. The park also offers opportunities to play golf, hike, swim, and fish.