PENSACOLA, Fla. — The Discovery Saturday series continues Jan. 16 with a presentation about Navy and Marine history.

As part of its mission to inspire and educate, the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola will present Marine Red — The service of a man and “his” Corsair at 10 a.m. on the flight deck of the USS Cabot in the National Naval Aviation Museum.

Eugene “Red” James, a fighter pilot who served in WW II and also the Korean Conflict, will be on deck to discuss historical events from Navy and Marine history with the general public.

James is among a unique number of pilots who have service in both national conflicts.

Enlisted in 1942, James flew 35 combat missions from Okinawa, Japan in 1945 and 101 missions from the USS Badoeng Strait (CVE-116) over Korea from 1952-1953.

Though this total of 136 combat missions puts James in a rare class, he was also awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and Combat Air Medal with Gold Stars, in addition to a Purple Heart for wounds suffered during combat.

James is also documented as having flown the F4U-4 Corsair, BuNo 97349 as displayed in the museum.

Very few veterans today can authentically be “reunited” with aircraft they have actually flown.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of this day,” stated James. “All of us veterans should have the chance to share our love and passion for our country and encourage the military’s fine service.”

Historian and aviation artist John Mollison will assist with the presentation featuring the history of the Corsair and James’ service and will have prints of his aviation art available for purchase with proceeds benefiting the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation Inc.

Discovery Saturday is free and open to the public.

The National Naval Aviation Museum features free admission and a full slate of events throughout the year.

For a complete list of events, exhibits and attractions at the museum, visit www.navalaviationmuseum.org, or call the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation at (850) 453-2389 or (800) 327-5002.