National Museum Of The Army Plans Veterans Day Opening

FORT BELVOIR, VA — The National Museum of the United States Army opening was previously delayed, but the new opening date is timely. The museum, located on a publicly accessible area of Fort Belvoir at 1775 Liberty Drive, will open on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

The museum is the first to tell the U.S. Army's complete history since it was created in 1775. It will be open to the public with free admission.

"The U.S. Army and the American Soldier forged the birth of our nation," said Secretary of the Army Ryan D. McCarthy in a statement. "The National Army Museum will be a place for members of the total Army family to gather and share their stories, while also creating an opportunity for visitors to connect with our nation’s history through the eyes and voices of individual Soldiers."

The museum was originally set to open in June. Some exhibit gallery finishing work had been delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Building construction and exhibit installations are now complete.

The museum features numerous exhibits, including Soldier's Stories, an Army Theater, and Medal of Honor Experience. The Experiential Learning Center provides hands-on, educational and team-building activities for all ages with a focus on geography, science, technology, engineering and math.

Health and safety measures will be implemented due to the pandemic. Free timed-entry tickets are required due to visitor capacity limits.

"We have worked hard to ensure the safety of our staff and visitors, and we are excited to open the doors of this long-awaited national museum," said Tammy E. Call, the museum director.

The museum is a joint effort between the U.S. Army and the nonprofit Army Historical Foundation. The foundation constructed the building through private funds, while the U.S. Army owns and operates the museum, providing the infrastructure, roads, utilities and exhibit work. The foundation also manages retail, catering and special events at the museum.

Before the opening, a ceremony will be livestreamed to mark the occasion. For more information and tickets, visit www.thenmusa.org.