The Southeast salutes military service, on and off the frontlines
Perhaps it’s the history, valor or bravery of combatants who impacted our nation’s crucial turning points. Or perhaps it’s to seek an understanding of the responsibility that comes with freedom.
No matter the reason, groups from around the United States are drawn to military-themed destinations to pay their heroes respect. But these heroes don’t wear capes; they wear combat boots.
Visit these military-themed sites across the Southeast that honor the men and women who support and defend the U.S. Constitution.
1.National Museum of the Marine Corps
Triangle, Virginia
[/media-credit] Installation, National Museum of the Marine Corps, Triangle, Va.
Upon arrival at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, groups first notice its distinct architecture, inspired by the World War II flag raising on Iwo Jima. It is the first museum dedicated to the U.S. Marine Corps.
Interactive exhibits invite visitors to experience more than 240 years of marine history. Construction on the museum’s 117,000-square-foot “final phase” is well underway. The Hall of Valor, a combat art gallery and studio, and a giant screen movie theater are among standouts that will open in 2017.
“This National Museum of the Marine Corps is going to help preserve that culture — help preserve that history,” said Gen. Michael W. Hagee of the 33rd Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps. “And not only educate and inform marines, but more importantly, educate the American public about what we do for this nation.”
Exhibits have been designed as immersive experiences involving sights, sounds, motion, temperature changes and other interactive surprises that are revealed as groups proceed on their own. The museum does not schedule docent-lead guided tours. However, trained volunteers and docents are stationed at posts throughout the museum.
Reservations are required for any group larger than 25 people or those arriving by motorcoach. Drivers may discharge their passengers at the museum entrance before proceeding to the designated motorcoach parking area.
2.Armed Forces History Museum
Largo, Florida
[/media-credit] Patton, Armed Forces History Museum, Largo, Fla.
Home to the largest military collection in the Southeast, Armed Forces History Museum encompasses 100,000 artifacts, 50 operational vehicles, interactive dioramas and audiovisual effects that bring groups from World War I to current conflicts.
The museum houses historical memorabilia, including fully restored and operational tanks, Jeeps, halftracks and armor. There’s also a large replica of supersonic jet Bell X-1, the first aircraft test pilot Chuck Yeager used to exceed the speed of sound.
“An authentic WWII M8 reconnaissance vehicle awaits for those looking to jump aboard for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Cindy Dion, assistant executive director.
Groups of 10 or more receive discounts, an in-depth tour provided by knowledgeable docents and the opportunity to enjoy lunch in the museum’s Quonset Hut.
3.USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
Mobile, Alabama
[/media-credit] USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, Mobile, Ala.
There’s a story to uncover at every turn at USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. From touring National Historic Landmark battleship USS ALABAMA and submarine USS DRUM, to exploring the Medal of Honor Aircraft Pavilion, which houses 25 historic aircraft, groups will be wowed.
“We refer to the park as ‘America’s most unique military attraction,’ and it is true,” said Rhonda P. Davis, director of sales and marketing. “We have military equipment, monuments and artifacts from all of the modern wars. Our visitors are always amazed at the breath of our collections.”
All tours of the park are self-guided, giving groups a chance to explore and learn at their own pace.
Visitors can explore several areas, including the newly restored Operating Room, Post Office, Chapel, Dentist Office, the Ship’s Store and The Galley. Areas that were used for fighting also are open, including the engine room.
Groups may schedule lunch aboard the ship in the Ward Room or in the Aircraft Pavilion.
“Many people don’t know that USS ALABAMA was the lead ship into Tokyo Harbor for the Japanese surrender, ending WWII,” Davis said. “Many people are surprised by the access they have and the authenticity of the ship. It truly is like stepping back in time to WWII.”
4.Military Branch Museum
Nashville, Tennessee
[/media-credit] Entrance, Military Branch Museum, Tennessee State Museum, Nashville, Tenn.
Part of Tennessee State Museum, the Military Branch Museum is located in the adjacent War Memorial Building. Exhibits look at overseas conflicts, beginning with the Spanish-American War and ending with Vietnam War.
One significant artifact is a deck gun from USS Nashville, which fired the first shot of the Spanish-American War. Additional artifacts include three Congressional Medals of Honor given to Tennesseans; a pistol captured by Sgt. Alvin York in World War I; Gen. Dwight Eisenhower’s “Ike” jacket; and original teletype message from Gen. George Marshall regarding the death of President Franklin Roosevelt.
This year, the museum is exhibiting “World War I Doughboy: The History of Tennessee’s War Memorial,” on view through Dec. 31, an extension of its original June 11 closure date.
“We have been very pleased with the number of visitors who have come downtown to the museum’s Military Branch Museum to see this important historic exhibit, showcasing one of Tennessee’s greatest architectural treasures,” said Lois Riggins-Ezzell, executive director of the Tennessee State Museum. “With the number of tourists predicted to visit Nashville this fall and during the holidays, this is an excellent opportunity for more visitors to view this very significant, educational exhibit.”
The exhibit highlights the history behind the War Memorial Building, which was built in 1925 as a result of Tennessee’s efforts to preserve the memory of those who sacrificed their lives in World War I.
Military events
[/media-credit] USAF Thunderbirds
The group isn’t visiting an area with a military-themed destination? Many bands, precision drill teams, paratroopers and pilots tour across the country. Check online schedules to find out when the world’s most advanced demonstration teams will be in town.
Through airshows, the USAF Thunderbirds demonstrate sharply choreographed skills that all fighter pilots must possess. The solo pilots exhibit some of the maximum capabilities of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, the U.S. Air Force’s premier multi-role fighter jet.
Similarly, the Blue Angels is the U.S. Navy’s flight demonstration squadron with aviators from the Navy and Marine Corps that fly the F-18 Hornet. The Blue Angels perform more than 70 shows across the country every year.
Wings of Freedom flight experiences and living history demonstrations educate groups about courageous World War II veterans and the aircraft they flew. Visitors ready for a thrill can take a flight on board a B-17, B-24 or P-51. Wings of Freedom visits more than 110 cities annually.
Other touring organizations include parachute teams like the Golden Knights (Army) and Leap Frogs (Navy). For a musical experience, groups can watch Airmen of Note (the Air Force band), Sea Chanters (Navy chorus) or the United States Coast Guard Band.
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