Military History Museums

Camp Wildcat Battlefield is a key part of U.S. history. It was the site of one of the first fights of the American Civil War on October 21st, 1861. To commemorate such a crucial moment in the United States' past, Camp Wildcat Battlefield now hosts special reenactment events where participants can gain deeper insight into what happened at this camp throughout the war effort and explore its former layout. Visitors to the battle camp can still see ruins from some of these protections today, providing an interesting and educational perspective on an important moment in US history.

The Air Force Enlisted Heritage Research Institute (AFEHRI) was established 23 May 1997 and is currently a component of the Barnes Center for Enlisted Education. It is comprised of a Director, a Curator, a Superintendent in charge of the AFEHRI operations, and an Information Technology and Administration Technician. The AFEHRI’s mission is to support the Barnes Center for Enlisted Education mission by educating and inspiring enlisted leaders on our enlisted history, heritage, and the resulting contribution to air and space power.  The AFEHRI answers monthly information requests from as high as the Secretary of Defense down to the lowest ranking Airman. The AFEHRI is responsible for editing both the Aviation History and Air Force Heritage chapters of Air Force Handbook 1, Airman that all testing-eligible Airmen study for promotion. Support is also provided to students in all facets of enlisted Professional Military Education (PME). It also provides secondary student support to the USAF First Sergeant Academy, as well as to the Officer Training School (OTS), Air Command and Staff College (ACSC), Air War College (AWC), the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), the Junior ROTC (JROTC), etc.

The institute is comprised of two elements. The research and archives element consists of a research center, archives storage, and a student computer lab. The heritage center element consists of the Air Force Enlisted Heritage Hall, with many student-teaching exhibits. A city and state tourist attraction, it is also serves as a military museum to civilian visitors. The AFEHRI preserves the rich and dramatic heritage and tradition of the United States Air Force and United States Space Force enlisted corps and its antecedents—Aeronautical Division, Army Air Service; Army Air Corps; and Army Air Forces. By doing so, it contributes to the development of air and space power to defend the United States. The AFEHRI achieves its mission by featuring artifacts, art collections, pictorial exhibits, written and oral documentation, audiovisuals, equipment, and selected aircraft parts. Additionally, students use the in-house and online research capabilities to enhance learning and complete enlisted heritage research projects. A significant archival holding is also available, and efforts are systematically made to ensure its growth and availability to researchers and the public.

Source from the USAF Enlisted Heritage Museum website. 

The Midway Village Museum in Rockford, Illinois is an interactive educational museum that celebrates the culture and history of the region. It offers a wide variety of exhibits and activities, including a full-size replica of a 19th century village, living historians dressed in period costumes who share stories and demonstrate Victorian era skills, restored historic homes, a railroad museum with vintage trains, interactive displays on all aspects of regional history including Native American civilization and the impact of WWII on the area. The museum also hosts regular events such as Civil War reenactments, music festivals, craft fairs and lectures. Visitors can explore the historic grounds while learning about the past from knowledgeable staff members. The museum is open year round for visitors to enjoy.

The Museum of 20th Century Warfare is located in Indiana and provides a unique learning experience for visitors of all ages. This museum pays tribute to those who fought bravely during World War II, Vietnam and other conflicts from the 20th century. It also seeks to educate people about how wars were fought and won by providing interactive exhibits with an emphasis on military history.

The Museum of 20th Century Warfare offers a wide range of exhibits and artifacts that showcase the history of American warfare. The museum also has a collection of archives that include original documents related to various wars such as World War I, World War II and Vietnam. These documents provide insight into how these wars affected everyday life in different countries around the world. There is also a library with books on military history that can be viewed or borrowed by visitors.

Visitors to the Museum of 20th Century Warfare can expect to spend several hours exploring its many exhibits and interactive displays. The museum is open throughout most days of the week with varying hours depending on when it is open for guided tours or special events. It is recommended to check their Facebook page before planning a visit so you know what days they are open and what activities are available during your visit. The museum is run by all volunteers throughout the entire year.

If you’re looking for an educational way to honor those who served in our armed forces during the 20th century, then consider visiting the Museum of 20th Century Warfare in Indianapolis, Indiana today! Through its many interactive exhibits and archives, this museum provides an opportunity for everyone to learn about military history while honoring our heroes who fought bravely throughout history’s conflicts. So don’t miss out – plan your visit today!

The Stars and Stripes Museum is a museum and educational center located in Bloomfield, Missouri. It was founded in 1998 with the mission of honoring America’s veterans, their families, and all who served in our nation's armed forces. The museum houses artifacts from U.S. Military conflicts including WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and more recent conflicts. Visitors to the museum can expect to experience interactive exhibits highlighting the service of American heroes from all branches of the military from both past and present. Exhibits include collections of photographs and memorabilia as well as an extensive library with various books about each conflict that have been donated by veterans. The Stars and Stripes Museum also provides a variety of educational programs for both adults and children. Additionally, the museum hosts special events throughout the year such as live recreations of military activities such as reenactments or drill exercises. The Stars and Stripes Museum is truly dedicated to celebrating America’s heritage through its vast array of historical artifacts, educational programs, special events and community outreach initiatives that honor our country’s heroes

The Vietnam Helicopters Museum in Concord, California is the perfect destination for travelers interested in aviation history. With a variety of military aircraft on display, including UH-1 Huey helicopters used during the Vietnam War, this museum offers more than just a visual experience. Visitors can learn about the brave pilots who operated these historic aircraft and their experiences during the war.

In addition to its impressive collection of Vietnam War–era helicopters, the museum also showcases an array of memorabilia from the era, such as wartime photographs and original uniforms. Plus, you can get up close and personal with some of the aircraft and artifacts on display.

This unique museum is located in one of California’s most stunning areas — Concord. This vibrant city offers plenty of activities while you’re visiting, from outdoor recreation at nearby Mt Diablo State Park to live music shows downtown. While you explore Concord's rich culture and heritage frontiers, be sure to stop by this incredible helicopter museum for an educational experience about America's involvement in one of its most important conflicts.