When Mexico joined the United States in World War II to oppose the Axis powers, an elite unit of Mexican fighter pilots was formed by special accord between Presidents Franklin Roosevelt and Manuel Avila Camacho. Fighter Squadron 201, known as the "Aztec Eagles," helped liberate the Philippines, and this achievement was highly publicized in Mexico and the United State as a symbol of binational solidarity. The Aztec Eagles were decorated and honored by the presidents of all three countries for valor in the cause of freedom. 

Join us for a screening of the documentary The Forgotten Eagles, filmed over a three-year period in Mexico, the Philippines, and the United States. This film features rare archival footage of the unit training in Mexico and the US, combat in the Far East, and interviews with squadron veterans, their families, and historians in all three countries, including one segment filmed in Oregon at the Tillamook Naval Air Station Museum. Co-producer and historian Sig Unander will answer questions and share details on the making of the film.  

Enjoy 15% off your hotel stay on History Pub nights! Show your ticket at check-in.

These events are open to everyone interested in Pacific Northwest history, and beyond! Often co-sponsored by local or state historical and civic organizations, we bring you experts, scholars, first-person experiencers, historians and documentaries expounding on topics from indigenous history to the birth of Portland, early explorers to hop growing, and on and on! It's like being back in the classroom - except this time you get to settle into comfortable seats and enjoy a drink or two with dinner while you listen and learn.

This event is eligible for a History Pub Stamp