
| Upcoming Events |
|
July 31, 2010
July 31, 2010
August 1, 2010
August 1, 2010
August 3, 2010
August 4, 2010
Click here for complete calendar of events |
Special Exhibits
July 22 – October 17, 2010Special Exhibit – Loyal Forces: The Animals of WWII
Loyal Forces: The Animals of WWII examines four types of animals used by armies throughout the world from 1939 to 1945. An American Coast Guard horse and horseman feature artifacts from the Home Front and civil defense. A German horse and reconnaissance soldier depict the European Theater of Operations and the reliance of German forces on horses for several aspects of the war. Pigeons and their varied equipment used in Europe and to cross the English Channel are also featured. A large part of the exhibit is dedicated to war dogs – including a look inside a veterinary clinic in the Pacific Islands. Finally, mules in the jungles of Burma demonstrate how only they could handle these strenuous workloads and conditions. The exhibit also includes two electronic viewing sections for displaying U.S. servicemen encountering exotic animals from North Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific Islands. It features a slideshow of beloved military mascots from every service branch. Another electronic element utilizes touch-screen technology to allow visitors to explore the contents of a German horse veterinary kit and learn how its contents would have been used to treat these animals. Loyal Forces: The Animals of WWII allows visitors to see another side of World War II, and demonstrates how lessons learned then continue to help us in the utilization of animals and their unique abilities today. |
| Previous Special Exhibitions |
|






Loyal Forces: The Animals of WWII is an exhibit focused on the animals employed and encountered throughout World War II, from the Home Front to the Pacific. Life-size horses and mules, harnessed in authentic World War II saddles and equipment, along with life-size mannequins, dressed in authentic World War II gear, demonstrate the unique impression made by military animals and their masters. Animals were appreciated both for their labor and love, but unfortunately not all were shown humane treatment when their usefulness was no longer in dire need. This exhibit focuses on each different animal’s specific usefulness and specific role within a campaign. 
