FORT BENNING, Ga., (Nov. 5, 2014) -- Two Pattons are leading the way as the National Armor and Cavalry Museum takes a huge step forward on Veterans Day near the National Infantry Museum at Fort Benning.
Pattons' Park will be dedicated in honor of generals George S. Patton and his son, George S. Patton Jr. at 10 a.m Nov. 11.
"The dedication of Pattons' Park is a significant part of our overall plan to build the National Armor and Cavalry Museum," said retired Command Sgt. Maj. Ricky W. Young, executive director of the National Armor and Cavalry Heritage Foundation. "It shows that we are moving forward."
Since the arrival of the Armor School at Fort Benning there has been talk about the National Armor and Cavalry Museum being built, but up until now to most folks that has just been talk, Young said.
"The construction and dedication of Pattons' Park makes the effort real on both the local and national level," he said. "It shows that the National Armor and Cavalry Heritage Foundation is committed to our goal."
While many are familiar with the elder Patton's leadership in World War II, Young said it is important to be able to honor a father and son, who are both proven Armor and Cavalry combat leaders.
"General Patton is well known and is an iconic figure with a storied career but Major General Patton was also an impressive, highly decorated fierce combat leader that was admired and respected by those he led and fought with," Young said, adding that Major General Patton's bio is definitely worth a look at. "Honoring the younger Patton alongside his father also connects this park with a different generation of veterans in our nation's history."
A monument for the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment also is being dedicated near Pattons' Park on Veterans Day.
"Many of the folks that will come for the 11th Cav monument groundbreaking served with Major General Patton in Vietnam," Young said. "Pattons' Park is just a great piece of American history with the wide range of vehicles displayed and pays homage to a family tradition of service. A tradition that runs through so many American families today."
Pattons' Park is about honoring both Armor and Cavalry Soldiers, he said. The groundbreaking that will take place by the 11th ACR Blackhorse Association and the 11th Armored Cavalry Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia signifies their commitment to stay connected with the "center of gravity" for the Armor and Cavalry force.
"This marks the beginning of their monument relocation and renewal project that will end with a formal dedication of their monument next year during their annual reunion that will be held at Fort Benning," he said.
When asked about the timeline for the completion of the museum, Young said everything is on track to have it completed by 2020 and those interested in getting involved in the effort are encouraged to go to www.armorcavalrymuseum.org for more information.
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