The Chennault Aviation and Military Museum is hosting their annual Chennault Gala this Thursday, October 19th. The Gala will begin at 7 pm at the Hub Music Hall in downtown Monroe.
The theme for the gala this year is "East Meets West" and will feature entertainment from a number of different Chinese and America entertainers. Tickets for the event are $75, but tables are available as well at $700.
The Chennault Aviation and Military Museum was named after General Claire L. Chennault, a former Monroe-resident, that fought the Japanese in World War II. Chennault along with his Flying Tigers aided the Chinese military in key aviation battles that ultimately pushed the enemy out of Allied territory.
The Chennault Gala's "East Meets West" theme highlights this Chinese-American military operation that completely changed the pace of the war in the East and was an important chapter in military relations with China. Nell Calloway, president and CEO of The Chennault Aviation Museuam, is excited about the Chinese culture that will be coming to Monroe this week. She says, "We have 24 Chinese entertainers that are going to be coming to Monroe, something we've never seen here before. They will be performing the "Chinese Dragon Dance," tai-chi, and even playing traditional Chinese instrument: the erhu.
There will also be some American culture included in the festivities. On top of traditional Chinese food, there will be seafood classics provided by the Louisiana Seafood Association. For entertainment, Doug Duffey, a world-renowned musician, will be playing a set with his band, the Louisiana Soul Revival.
For more information about the Chennault Gala, click here.