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The National Museum of Transportation (TNMOT) is thrilled to welcome CAPT Kevin “PROTON” McLaughlin, USN (Ret.), on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 7:00 PM, for a once-in-a-lifetime evening celebrating American aviation and military excellence.
CAPT McLaughlin is a former Commander of TOPGUN, the U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School, and served as a technical advisor for the blockbuster film Top Gun: Maverick. He is also recognized for orchestrating the largest flyover in U.S. history during the funeral of President George H.W. Bush.
This exclusive event coincides with TNMOT’s celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the first flight of the F/A-18 E1 Super Hornet, which took place on November 29, 1995. The Super Hornet, proudly built by McDonnell Douglas in St. Louis, remains a symbol of American innovation and strength—and a centerpiece of the Museum’s collection.
The F/A-18 E1 Super Hornet on display at TNMOT. Smithsonian Institution representatives have noted the Museum houses “one of the largest and best collections of transportation vehicles in the country.”
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: The National Museum of Transportation
2933 Barrett Station Road, Kirkwood, MO
Reservations are required and can be made at: https://tnmot.org/product/top-gun-instructor-and-pilot-panel/
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to hear first hand stories from the cockpit, behind-the-scenes insights from Top Gun: Maverick, and a celebration of a legendary aircraft’s legacy.
About TNMOT:
The National Museum of Transportation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that receives no government funding. Located in Kirkwood, MO, TNMOT is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the past, present, and future of transportation in America.
