The National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle unveiled two new immersive exhibits earlier this month, where visitors can learn about the Marine Corps’ operations from the post-Vietnam era to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
These new exhibits span 20,000 square feet, with artifacts and immersive environments focused on Marine Corps activity.
“Opening these new galleries is a significant achievement for the museum and the Marine Corps,” said Major General James Lukeman, USMC (Ret), President and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. “These exhibits give visitors an immersive look into the experiences of Marines over the last fifty years, and we hope they inspire an appreciation for the brave men and women who have faithfully served our nation.”
Some artifacts that are now on display include the M198 Howitzer that fired the first shot in Operation Desert Storm, a fighter jet that flew armed patrols over DC the day after 9/11, and a recreation of an Iraqi street “where visitors can experience the challenges of urban warfare as Marines clear buildings of insurgents and collaborate with Iraqi citizens to rebuild their communities.”
Other features include galleries that focus on topics such as the development of combat medicine, life aboard Navy ships, and recreations of forward operating bases.
The National Museum of the Marine Corps sits on 135 acres, adjacent to the Marine Corps Base Quantico. It is operated via a partnership between the U.S. Marine Corps and the nonprofit Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.
The museum is open daily with free entry.
National Museum of the Marine Corps: 1775 Semper Fidelis Wy., Triangle
Feature image courtesy Stephanie Grooms, Marine Corps Heritage Foundation
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