Discovering History in College Station
Located just off Highway 6 in College Station, the Museum of the American G.I. is a treasure trove of military history that vibrantly brings the past to life. Walking inside feels like stepping back in time, as the museum is home to an impressive collection of tanks, artillery, and uniforms encased in a spacious metal warehouse. Each of these exhibits stands as a silent guardian of stories that deserve to be told, but here, history does more than just sit quietly behind glass — it roars to action.
A Living Tribute to Veterans
Under the passionate direction of Leisha Mullins, along with her adorable corgi guide dog, Annie, the museum captures the essence of the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served in wars such as World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War. As Mullins puts it, “The vehicles are the hook. They draw people in, but once they’re here, they become captivated by the deeper history behind each exhibit.”
For visitors like Corbin Olson, a College Station native, the museum is more than just a visit — it’s a cherished family tradition. “Seeing all these pieces of history was something I will never forget,” Olson said. He fondly reminisces about road trips spent exploring various museums across the country, yet he always deem the Museum of the American G.I. as his favorite due to its vast and engaging displays.
Uniforms and Stories of Sacrifice
Among the standout pieces in the museum are the meticulously-preserved uniforms representing different eras and sacrifices. From the classic white and blue uni-form of World War I to the neatly-kept fatigues from the Vietnam War, every garment tells a story of valor and service. One especially notable display belongs to Capt. Robert Acklen, a proud member of the Texas A&M Class of 1963, whose uniform symbolizes the contributions made by Aggies to the military. Nearby, the vintage flight suit of Lieutenant William R. Stade, decorated with patches from the Korean War, evokes a sense of nostalgia and honor.
One of the museum’s most solemn areas is the Texas Vietnam Heroes Exhibit, featuring an array of dog tags that represent 3,417 Texan soldiers who lost their lives in the Vietnam War. Among these tags, 102 are black, honoring those who remain missing in action. This poignant exhibit serves as a chilling reminder that No man left behind is more than just a phrase — it’s a commitment to honor every veteran who has served.
The Importance of Preservation
Much of the museum’s impressive collection has been built through donations from the families of veterans, fostering a rich tapestry of history. Students participate as volunteers to help preserve this living legacy. One such volunteer, Tyler McStravick, a graduate student in maritime archeology and conservation, finds immense value in his work at the museum, stating, “It’s one of the best attractions in the Bryan-College Station area.”
With monthly events, the museum showcases the amphibious capabilities of vehicles through “History in Motion” and “Living History” exhibits where eager volunteers learn how to operate the armored machines. University studies senior Zachary Hashey excitedly shared, “Seeing a tank fire, the static, and the intricate details in real life is something everyone should experience.”
A Community of Restoration
Restoration has become a hallmark of the museum, with efforts focused on bringing these machines of war back to life. Mullins explains that the process often involves disassembling each vehicle and restoring it from the ground up. “None of these vehicles looked how they look now when we got them,” she said, highlighting the museum’s commitment to history through meticulous restoration efforts.
Among the special projects is the restoration of the rare M3 gun motor carriage, also known as the ‘Tar Heel.’ This project held personal significance for a Marine Corps veteran, Ed Eyre, who approached the museum to honor a friend lost in combat. The joy on their faces when they saw the vehicle restored to its former glory was a testament to the emotional connections we forge with these artifacts of the past.
The Stories That Matter
Mullins believes that the heart of the museum lies in the stories behind the uniforms and weapons. “You can’t evaluate historical events in current modern lenses,” she reminds us. “You have to learn from your past.” It’s that heart and passion that drives the Museum of the American G.I.; every piece represents a life, a story, and a sacrifice. So, whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for an educational outing, or just someone curious about our military heritage, this museum is waiting to tell you the stories that shaped our nation.
