An exhibit honoring World War II pilot veterans is being displayed in the first-floor lobby of Lake Charles City Hall, 326 Pujo St.

“WWII fighter Aircraft Lithographs” features 17 aviation prints that World War II pilot veterans have signed.

Chennault and the city were inspired to feature the pieces to “honor local heritage, promote education, preserve history, and foster community pride,” said Kevin Melton,executive director of Chennault International Airport Authority.

This exhibit is a “rare opportunity to connect with the legacy of those who fought for our freedom,” said Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter.

Chennault International Airport (previously Lake Charles Air Force Base) has “deep historical roots tied to WWII,” Melton said.

“It was a major player to establish “Strength Through Deterrence” as a Strategic Air Command Base in the 1940s and beyond.”

The airport was renamed Chennault Air Force Base on Nov. 14, 1958, to honor Lieutenant General Clair Lee Chennault from Monroe. He is known for creating the First American Volunteer Group (AVG) called the “Flying Tigers.

The group was nicknamed this “because of their fearsome tiger teeth as part of their nose art.”

Under his leadership, the Flying Tigers had direct and significant impact to oppose the Japanese invasion of China during World War II,” Melton said. “Hosting the exhibit highlights the airport’s direct lineage to the war’s aviation legacy and honors its namesake.”

“I invite everyone to visit, reflect and appreciate the rich heritage this exhibit brings to life,” Hunter said.

Melton said in a release that Chennault is appreciative of the city using facilities to highlight history and culture and Jay and Brenda Delafield for donating the photographs. He said both Jay — who served in the Army Reserves Infantry, 1968-1976 — and Brenda are “strong friends of the Chennault” and “avid aviation enthusiasts.”

Melton said Chennault’s role in organizing the exhibit shows its “commitment to the community and highlights an investment in cultural and historical initiatives.”

“The exhibit can connect the city’s residents with the role Chennault International Airport has played in aviation history, emphasizing a sense of shared legacy for many who remember Chennault as an Air Force Base,” Dodd said. “In fact, many came to Lake Charles as a result of reassignment while in the Army Air Corps whose families either stayed or returned to call Lake Charles their home.”

The third exhibit in the City’s new initiative to display new art in City Hall each quarter.

Light refreshments will be served at the opening reception.

The exhibition is free and open to the public and will be on view through Friday, Nov. 29. Lake Charles City Hall is open 8 a.m. to 4:20 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, call 337-491-9147.