About the Exhibit

Exploring the story of the US Army’s first mobile, multimedia tactical deception unit, this major traveling exhibit reveals how the “Ghost Army” used creativity, illusion, and innovation to mislead German forces during the final year of World War II. Activated on January 20, 1944, the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops consisted of artists, engineers, soldiers, and draftees who employed inflatable tanks, fake radio transmissions, sound effects, and visual deception to simulate entire divisions and protect Allied troops across Europe. The exhibit examines themes such as military innovation, tactical deception, secrecy during wartime, and the contributions of artists and creative thinkers to the Allied war effort.

Visitors will experience:

• Original artifacts including uniforms, equipment, sketches, and artwork created by Ghost Army soldiers
• Archival photography, oral histories, and narrative displays detailing major deception operations from Normandy to the Rhine River
• Immersive environments and interactive multimedia elements exploring the use of sonic, visual, and radio deception tactics during World War II
• Inflatable tank and other materials like those used in the unit’s top-secret operations 

Ghost Army: The Combat Con Artists of World War II is exclusively sponsored by E. L. Wiegand Foundation. 

Exhibit Specifications

• 2,300–4,500 square feet of space
• Includes exhibit text panels, 3 inflatables (optional based on square feet), 1 mock headquarters, 1 oral history station, and 2 interactive deception stations (audio and Morse Code stations)
• Requires secure exhibit space that is staffed during open hours
• Minimum of five-person installation crew

Please see contract for detailed delivery and staffing requirements. 

Booking

Ghost Army is ideal for history museums, arts and cultural institutions, community centers, and academic venues. Twelve-week minimum booking.

For details and availability, please contact travelingexhibits@nationalww2museum.org.   

Upcoming Venues and Dates

• Museum at Texas Tech University (Lubbock, Texas): May 24 – August 16, 2026
• New York State Museum (Albany, New York): September 1 – December 27, 2026
• Washington State History Museum (Tacoma, Washington): January 16, 2026 – June 20, 2027 

Press & Marketing Materials

Style guide and marketing support provided upon booking.  

Resources include:  

• Press release template  
• Signage and digital graphic templates  
• Fonts, colors, and logos  
• Support from Marketing & Communications staff

In accordance with the contract, any publicity materials—including digital promotions like social media, email, online content or ads—must be sent to our Traveling Exhibits Department for review and approval prior to printing and distribution.