Take your best shot!
At first glance, sporting clays and the Mighty Eighth Air Force may seem worlds apart. During World War II, however, skeet shooting played an important role in preparing aerial gunners for combat. Many airmen sharpened the skills they would rely on in the skies over Europe by practicing on skeet ranges before deployment. That connection lives on today through artifacts in the museum’s collection, including Captain Leo H. Kerns’ (20th Fighter Group, 77th Fighter Squadron) Squadron Skeet Team medal.
Today, the Wick Searcy Memorial Clay Shoot continues that tradition of marksmanship, camaraderie, and service while supporting the museum’s mission. Proceeds from the event directly benefit the museum’s H+STEM education programs, helping connect thousands of students and educators each year with the history, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics behind the stories of the Mighty Eighth through museum experiences and outreach programs.
Friday, September 18, 2026
Remembering Wick Searcy
Major General William “Wick” Nelson Searcy dedicated his life to service, leadership, and the Savannah community. He embarked on a distinguished military career with the Georgia Air National Guard, rising to the rank of Major General and serving as commander of the 165th Air Wing. Throughout his military service, Wick displayed a deep appreciation for the men and women in uniform who sacrificed their time, talents, and, when called upon, their lives in service to their country. He retired as Commander of the Georgia Air National Guard and Assistant Adjutant General, Air.
Outside of his military service, Wick spent his legal career with the Savannah firm Brannen, Searcy & Smith, LLP, where his practice focused on corporate, business, and real estate law. His commitment to service extended well beyond his profession. He was an active leader in the Rotary Club of Savannah, a dedicated supporter of the University of Georgia, and served as Chairman of the Board of the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force.
Wick believed in giving your very best, a philosophy captured in the simple phrase he often shared: “Take your best shot.” Today, those words continue to inspire the annual Wick Searcy Memorial Clay Shoot, bringing together friends, businesses, and supporters to honor his memory while advancing the museum’s mission for future generations.