MUSEUM OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY Fort Belvoir, Virginia | Opening Veterans Day 2020
A guide to the region’s newest museum, chronicling 245 years of histor y
The day, and the facility, both honor those who ser ved BY PAUL LARA
info@insidenova.com
T
he long-awaited opening of the newest museum in the National Capital Region is upon us. The National Museum of the United States Army opens on Veterans Day, about five months later than anticipated, due to the pandemic that delayed finalizing construction on the impressive facility. As Veterans Day is an opportunity to honor those who serve, the museum serves as a reflective monument on a hill that will tell the story of 245 years of Army history. Because people are the centerpiece of the Army, the museum brings to life that history in times of war and peace as told through the eyes of soldiers. The
museum also offers educational experiences illustrating the Army’s role in building and defending our nation, as well as Army humanitarian missions and technological and medical breakthroughs built on Army ingenuity. The museum is a joint effort between the U.S. Army and the Army Historical Foundation, which is leading a $200 million capital campaign to fund its construction. The Army provided the land, as well as $230 million toward site preparation, infrastructure, exhibits and interior work. The construction and maintenance of a national museum of this scale was and is a massive undertaking. The Army designated the foundation as the official fundraiser to support the building’s construction on
federal land. A combination of foundation and museum contracts brought the museum to life. Construction of the 185,000-square-foot facility began in 2017. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers coordinated site preparation, built the roads, and installed utilities. In total, over 30 different organizations brought their expertise to this important project. The U.S. Army now owns and operates the museum. The foundation will continue its fundraising role in support of museum operations and will manage all retail, catering and special events services. Located on Fort Belvoir off Fairfax County Parkway, the museum is accessible to everyone, and, while admission is free, timed tickets must be obtained online.