Founded in 1975, the U.S. Army Museum of the Noncommissioned Officer in Fort Bliss, Texas, displays and depicts the history of the NCO from 1775 to the present. Exhibits emphasizes history and NCOs as small-unit combat leaders, trainers, and standard bearers of the Army's customs and traditions.

Visitors to the museum follow a chronological story line beginning with the American Revolution and an exhibit of reproduced rank insignia, uniforms and equipment that would have been used by NCOs in the Continental Army. Information about pay, rations and rank structure are integrated into the exhibits. Special presentations examine daily life in the 1830s, women NCOs, prisoners of war, and the development of the Noncommissioned Officer Education System.

Among the featured artifacts are: war bond posters; a POW uniform worn by Sgt. Maj. Dennis Thompson; two model 1840 NCO swords; a uniform worn by Sgt. Tracy McMillan with the 626th Support Battalion in Kandahar, Afghanistan; two uniforms worn by Command Sgt. Maj. Charles Guyette and Sgt. Stephen Dorsey with the 89th Military Police Brigade in Iraq; and original paintings from the first Year of the NCO in 1989.

The museum is an integral part of the nearby Sergeants Major Academy and is part of the program of instruction for Sergeants Major and First Sergeant course students.

Guided tours can be arranged by calling 915-744-8646. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

L. R. Arms is the director of the U.S. Army Museum of the Noncommissioned Officer.