Fort McCoy Armed Forces Day Open House event set for May 15

By Fort McCoy Public AffairsApril 22, 2010

FORT McCOY, Wis. -- Fort McCoy will host its annual Armed Forces Day Open House Saturday, May 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. rain or shine.

The event is free and open to the public. The 2010 Armed Forces Day theme is "United in Strength."

The Commemorative Area, with its park-like setting, will serve as the "hub" for all activities. An information area will be located at the main entrance to building 905, which also will have numerous informational exhibits and displays.

The History Center, World War II Commemorative Area buildings and the Equipment Park will be open throughout the day. With period furnishings, photos and displays, guests can glimpse into Fort McCoy's rich history from 1909 to present day.

The Veterans Memorial Plaza, the newest addition to the Commemorative area, features statues depicting Soldiers from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam and today's wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The plaza was designed as an area to reflect and honor those who have served and continue to serve the country.

Highlights include guided bus tours of the installation, personalized dog tags, camouflage face-painting, an interactive marksmanship gallery, an obstacle course for children and historical military re-enactors.

Food and refreshments will be available for purchase throughout the day.

Open House visitors must use Gate 15 (Tomah Gate) to access the Open House Grounds from off post. The gates are manned by security personnel, and adult visitors must be prepared to show photo identification upon entering.

For more information, call the Fort McCoy Public Affairs Office at 608-388-2407.