The sights and sounds of World War II return to Fort Oglethorpe on Saturday, Oct. 24, as the 6th Cavalry Museum presents its sixth annual Remembering Our Heroes.
The day enables visitors to get a sense of WWII through living-history displays, battle reenactments, an extensive military vehicle display and a USO show.
The focus of the event is the battle reenactment. Reenactors, outfitted in authentic WWII uniforms representing both the Allied and Axis soldiers, advance toward each other across the parade field while firing blanks from authentic WWII-era weapons accompanied by WWII jeeps, troop transport truck and armored car.
Looking past the uniforms, vehicles, displays and reenactments, Remembering Our Heroes is really about honoring and remembering those who have served our country, particularly during WWII.
“They are often referred to as ‘The Greatest Generation,’ and if you ever take time to listen to their stories, you’ll see why,” says Chris McKeever, director of the 6th Cavalry Museum. “We are rapidly losing these veterans, and this event allows us the opportunity to say thank you to them. This year is also significant as 2015 marks the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII.”
All WWII veterans, men and women, are honored guests at the event. They receive free admission to Remembering Our Heroes and are recognized and introduced during the opening ceremony.
“We call each one present by name and present them with a special pin thanking them for their service,” McKeever says. “It’s truly heartwarming to see these veterans, some of whom come in their uniforms, accompanied by their family and friends. They are all so proud, so honored to be here, but what they don’t realize is that it’s the rest of us who are honored to have them here at the Post where thousands trained for WWII and to be able to share this day with them.”
Following the ceremony, all WWII veterans are invited to a lunch courtesy of the Chattanooga Times Free Press.
Visitors will be able to walk through a command tent manned by Gen. George Patton, portrayed by Denny Hair, and sit in on a meeting between him and his officers.
The USO show will feature Atlanta-based trio Vintage Vocals, performing in the Andrews Sisters style of the 1940s.
In addition to commemorating the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII, a memorial service will be held for the five servicemen killed in Chattanooga on July 16.
If you go
‘ What: Remembering Our Heroes
‘ When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24
‘ Where: Parade field at 6th Cavalry Museum, 6 Barnhardt Circle, Fort Oglethorpe
‘ Admission: $10 (free to World War II veterans)
‘ Phone: 706-861-2860
‘ Website: www.6thcavalrymuseum.org