Approximately 150 people, some wearing Army memorabilia from World War II to the present, attended the Friday, Nov. 9, opening ceremony for the Visitor Education Center, the newest addition to the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center at Carlisle Barracks, Pa.
Army dignitaries mingled with period reenactors dressed in uniforms and gear from the Revolutionary War to the current conflicts.
The VEC features The Soldier Experience from the point of view of six Soldiers. It depicts their personal transition from a civilian to a Soldier in their era. The opening had another special feature -- three of the six Soldiers whose lives are depicted in the experience were present to add personal anecdotes. Center officials noted that the Soldiers whose experiences are currently depicted will change from time to time.
The Baltimore District Design Branch provided exhibit design and fabrication guidance to support the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center Foundation. The district found and selected the small business firm with experience in the unique skill set needed to take a significant amount of memorabilia and design and integrate these exhibits by telling personal stories.
The Heritage Center constructed the facility. The exhibits include personal papers, photos, individual equipment, letters, uniforms and some weapons (rifles and hand guns) and other artifacts from the nation's beginning to now. The researchers also found archival film and video footage including Gen. Norman Schwartzkoff's press briefings during the first Gulf War.
Social Sharing