[Mike Gray]

Mike,
Yes, I agree. Bit of a catch-22. The governments sell it off as surplus, no longer wanted. But eventually it finds it's way back to government museums for display. Witness the wholesale destruction and scrapping of surplus WWII aircraft at the end of the war. Now there are only two flying Lancasters in the world. Thanks to hard work and dedication of collectors and enthusiasts. And the public loves it.
I am an assistant at a private military museum. There is no charge to view. School classes come in for educational tours. I have a private collection of my own, which we put out on display every chance we get. 99% of the people can not say 'thankyou for doing this' enough times.
Just my 2 cents in on the subject.