Museum of the American G.I.

Wings of History
2024-11-14 10:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Museum of the American GI, 19124 Highway 6 South, College Station, Texas, 77845
Watch creativity take flight on November 14th during our Home School Thursday Hands-on History event, Wings of History. You won’t want to miss this blast from the past! Children ages 5th grade and up will make their own biplane to take home while learning about the history and uses of roundels. This is an all-day, come-and-go event.
Remember, on Home School Thursday, parents receive student admission prices!

Cocoa for a Cause
2024-11-16 03:00 - 23:59
Christmas in November!
We invite you to join us at Santa’s Wonderland on November 16 for Military Appreciation Weekend! Veterans and Active-Duty Military personnel are free*. So grab your family and friends and join us as we honor and salute the men and women who served!
Your Texas Christmas Experience will not be complete without a cup of World Famous Hot Cocoa!
On Saturday, November 16, 100% of all Hot Cocoa Sales will go directly to the Museum of the American G.I.! So why not treat yourself to a delicious cup of cocoa and help support a good cause all at once?!
Thank you, Santa’s Wonderland, for helping us “Make the World a Better Place”!
We will have staff at the Trading Post to meet you and answer any questions you may have about our museum and our mission!
*You must show your Military ID for this free offer. It does not include family members, but you can purchase tickets online for savings on general admission tickets that family and friends may use during Military Appreciation Weekend.

Code Breakers
2024-11-23 11:00 - 14:00
Unlock your inner spy on Saturday, November 23rd, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. (while supplies last) in our introduction to encrypting and decrypting messages. Be sure to mark your calendars because you don’t want to miss this. Perfect for children in 5th -8th grade, we’ll be learning about the use of cryptography in WWII in a hands-on activity.

Operation Mail Drop
2024-12-05 10:00 - 17:00
Help us spread holiday cheer this season by joining us on Thursday, December 5th, for Operation Mail Drop. Together, we’ll write letters to active military members to show appreciation and give well wishes. Individuals in 3rd grade and up are invited to participate in this hands-on History day. This is an all-day, come-and-go event.
Remember, on Home School Thursday, parents receive student admission prices!

Remember Pearl Harbor
2024-12-07 10:00 - 2024-12-08 17:00
Remember Pearl Harbor became the rallying cry for WWII. Join us on December 7 to explore the event that brought the United States into the war. Living Historians will be present on both days to discuss military life during the war.
We invite students to join us on Saturday from 11 AM – 2 PM for special Hands-On activities as we Remember Pearl Harbor. Learn about the US Navy ships that were damaged and the three that were never recovered or create a poster to rally the American Public. You will learn how a Navy Chaplin encouraged the sailors aboard the USS New Orleans to “Praise the Lord and pass the ammunition” and how a mess attendant, second class from Waco, shot down a Japanese plane and encouraged the nation.

Crafting Courage
2024-12-14 10:00 - 15:00
Mark your calendars for our Hands-on History event on December 14th! From 10 AM to 3 PM, we will be joined by living historians who will discuss life at the war front.
Stick around for Crafting Courage from 11 AM to 2 PM as we make yarn dolls inspired by real yarn dolls given as good luck tokens to soldiers during WWI. This craft activity is perfect for students in 4th grade and up.

Battle of the Bulge
2025-01-02 10:00 - 2025-09-30 17:00
Join us as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, one of World War II’s most significant events. Starting December 20, the museum will present an exhibit that tells the story of the resilience, strategy, and sacrifice that defined the winter of 1944-1945.
The exhibit highlights key moments that defined the battle, from the 101st Airborne Division’s defense of Bastogne to the 740th “Daredevils ” and General Patton’s Third Army’s decisive advance. Stories of tragedy and heroism, such as the poignant remembrance of the Wereth 11 massacre, underscore the human cost of the battle.
Discover how the Battle of the Bulge influenced the course of World War II and left a lasting impact on the fight for freedom.
“This is undoubtedly the greatest American battle of the war and will, I believe, be regarded as an ever-famous American victory.” ~ British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill
We invite you to a special exhibit of “Commemorating Courage, Celebrating Peace: 80 Years After WWII.“ We will explore the resilience, courage, and sacrifice that characterized World War II’s global struggle for freedom. These ongoing exhibits commemorate the 80th anniversary of the war’s conclusion, gradually revealing new stories, artifacts, and perspectives commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II’s. Each phase will explore pivotal battles, VE and VJ Day celebrations, and the enduring impact of the war.
Coming in February – Remembering Iwo Jima
Coming in April – The Battle of Okinawa
Coming in May – VE Day
Coming in September – VJ Day
As we reflect on the past, these exhibits remind us of the enduring lessons of WWII and celebrate the peace that so many fought to achieve. Whether you’re a history buff, a student, or someone looking to honor the memories of a generation that sacrificed so much, this experience offers a rare and meaningful journey through time.

Patterns of War
2025-01-09 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-01-11 11:00 - 14:00
Discover the art of deception as we explore the bold and eye-catching designs of razzle dazzle camouflage that helped ships in WWI evade enemy detection. On January 9th (all day, come and go) and 11th (11 AM – 2 PM), join us for a hands-on experience. This event is perfect for 4th grade and older.

Winterblitz 2025
2025-01-25 11:00 - 16:00
Winterblitz 2025
Presented by Texas Independent Military Modelers
January 25, 2025
A fun, laid-back show for armor and figure enthusiasts set amongst REAL historic artifacts!
All show, registration, and contact information can be found on the official event website – Winterblitz
The event is open to the public. It’s a great day to visit the museum and see fantastic models, and the museum’s 1:1 scale restored functional original vehicles! Better yet, enter a model and join the fun! For those interested in getting started in the hobby, there will be a vendor market where you can pick up a model and tips.
Views of Winterblitz 2024

Threads of Love
2025-02-06 10:00 - 17:00
We apologize, but our Threads of Love event is POSTPONED. We know how much you’ve been looking forward to it, and we’re working hard to finalize new details. Stay tuned for updates – we’ll share more soon! Thank you for your understanding.

Step into the past and explore the embroidered silk postcards and sweetheart pillows that carried love and comfort to soldiers during WWII. On February 6th (all day, come and go) and February 8th (11 AM – 2 PM), join us for a hands-on experience that lets you learn about—and even try your hand at—creating these beautiful wartime keepsakes.

Hands on History - The Great War
2025-02-08 10:00 - 2025-02-09 17:00
Mark your calendars for our next Hands-on History event on February 8 & 9! Stop by the museum to speak with living historians who will bring the Great War to life. These passionate Living Historians will showcase WWI artifacts and gear in this hands-on experience. Get up close with historical items and learn about life on the frontlines.

Threads of Love
2025-02-08 11:00 - 14:00
Step into the past and explore the embroidered silk postcards and sweetheart pillows that carried love and comfort to soldiers during WWII. On February 6th (all day, come and go) and February 8th (11 AM – 2 PM), join us for a hands-on experience that lets you learn about—and even try your hand at—creating these beautiful wartime keepsakes.

Remembering Iwo Jima
2025-02-19 10:00 - 2025-09-30 17:00
The Battle of Iwo Jima, fought from February 19 to March 16, 1945, was a pivotal and grueling confrontation in the Pacific Theater of WWII. US Marines faced staunch Japanese resistance, including ambushes and counterattacks from the island’s tunnel network. On February 23, The iconic flag-raising on Mount Suribachi symbolized a morale boost, but it did not signify the battle’s end, as fierce fighting continued for several weeks afterward.
During a span of 36 days, 6,821 Marines were killed, and approximately 19,200 were wounded, making it one of the bloodiest battles in Marine Corps history. This operation showcased remarkable military coordination between the Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Coast Guard, and supporting forces while highlighting the relentless sacrifice of those involved.
“Iwo Jima was the most savage and costly battle in the history of the Marine Corps.”
~Lieutenant General Holland M. Smith, USMC
“Among the men who fought on Iwo Jima, uncommon valor was a common virtue”
—Admiral Chester W. Nimitz
We invite you to a special exhibit of “Commemorating Courage, Celebrating Peace: 80 Years After WWII.“ We will explore the resilience, courage, and sacrifice that characterized World War II’s global struggle for freedom. These ongoing exhibits commemorate the 80th anniversary of the war’s conclusion, gradually revealing new stories, artifacts, and perspectives commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II’s. Each phase will explore pivotal battles, VE and VJ Day celebrations, and the enduring impact of the war.
On display now – Reflections on the Battle of the Bulge and the new additions, Remembering Iwo Jima.
Coming in April – The Battle of Okinawa
Coming in May – VE Day
Coming in September – VJ Day
As we reflect on the past, these exhibits remind us of the enduring lessons of WWII and celebrate the peace that so many fought to achieve. Whether you’re a history buff, a student, or someone looking to honor the memories of a generation that sacrificed so much, this experience offers a rare and meaningful journey through time.

Living History School Day 2025
2025-03-21 09:30 - 15:30
We invite you to join us for the 2025 Living History School Day on March 21, 2025. This is an opportunity for students to view history in a new way! The purpose is to educate students about US military history from the Civil War to the present. The program has many demonstrations and displays that will excite and engage students while honoring our veterans and their sacrifices.
The Living History School Day is divided into three camps with 4 to 5 stations per camp highlighting the military experience, primarily from WWI – to Vietnam. This is an all-day program with two sessions (one morning and one afternoon) and a lunch break in between!
Everyone will enjoy the free parking at Santa’s Wonderland’s new Blitzen Lot (no parking on site).
Registration will open on January 29, 2025, at 10 AM
Tickets – $10 Students, $7 Parents and Extended Family Member
For Private Schools, 2 teachers are free for every 10 students.
Registration will close on March 9th, or when a maximum of 300 students have registered. REGISTRATION HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO MARCH 16.
The Living History School Day is a “Special Event Day’ and regular admission prices are not valid. This is an outdoor event, and the museum building will not be open for tours during the Living History School Day.
Click the button below for more information and to purchase tickets!

Living History Weekend 2025
2025-03-22 10:00 - 2025-03-23 15:00
Join us for the Living History Weekend on March 22 -23, 2025! Visitors will view Living History Displays, witness the roar of tanks in our WWII ETO and PTO Skirmishes, step back in history as they view WWI skirmishes, see History in Action during our Vietnam Era Skirmish and Flame Thrower demonstration, and view historic military vehicles. There will even be a Military Swap Meet! This family-friendly event is sure to have something for everyone!
Everyone will enjoy the free parking at Santa’s Wonderland’s new Blitzen Lot (no parking on site). Upon entering the museum property, you will ride in a WWII 2 1/2 ton CCKW or modern HUMVEE to the reenactment fields where all the activities will occur. You can start or end your day by browsing the militaria vendors to take home a small piece of history!
Come early and stay all day! You will not want to miss anything. Food vendors will be on-site to make sure no one goes hungry! On Saturday, you can eat your fill of Chick-fil-A or everyone’s favorite Big Dawg Barbecue and Raging Bull Street Taco’s. Of course, you will want to quench your thirst and cool off with Kona Ice!
One Day Tickets (Cash price)
$25 Adults, $10 Kids (5-17), Under 5 free
Two Day Tickets
$40 Adults, $17.50 Kids, Under 5 free (Cash price)
Admission tickets will go on sale February 5th at 10 AM.
Click the button below for a list of activities, a tentative schedule, and to purchase tickets!

Battle of Okinawa
2025-04-09 10:00 - 2025-09-30 17:00
As the last major battle of the Pacific War, Okinawa was a brutal and decisive confrontation that foreshadowed the immense cost of a potential invasion of Japan. Spanning over three months, it became one of the deadliest engagements of World War II, marked by relentless combat, the Japanese counteroffensive Operation Ten-ichi-go, the devastating kamikaze attacks, and unimaginable civilian suffering. The Battle of Okinawa was a turning point, underscoring Okinawa’s critical strategic importance to the Allied forces.
We invite you to explore Okinawa’s harrowing realities, honor the sacrifices made, and reflect on its lasting impact on history and the pursuit of peace. This exhibit honors the sacrifices made and examines Okinawa’s enduring impact on military strategy and history.
“The Okinawa Operation was in many ways the most difficult of the Pacific War. Conceived, launched, and supported at long range, it required meticulous detail in both planning and execution. Bad weather, defenses which employed the rugged terrain with great skill and cunning, and a well-trained, resolute defense force combined to give the enemy an advantage that was overcome only by courage, ingenuity, and endurance of the highest order . . . It is a vital chapter in the history of our nation.”
~Marine MGen Lemuel Shepherd commanded the 6th Marine Division during the Battle of Okinawa
We invite you to a special exhibit of “Commemorating Courage, Celebrating Peace: 80 Years After WWII.“ We will explore the resilience, courage, and sacrifice that characterized World War II’s global struggle for freedom. These ongoing exhibits commemorate the 80th anniversary of the war’s conclusion, gradually revealing new stories, artifacts, and perspectives commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II’s. Each phase will explore pivotal battles, VE and VJ Day celebrations, and the enduring impact of the war.
On display now – Reflections on the Battle of the Bulge and the new additions, Remembering Iwo Jima. The Battle of Okinawa
Coming in May – VE Day
Coming in September – VJ Day
As we reflect on the past, these exhibits remind us of the enduring lessons of WWII and celebrate the peace that so many fought to achieve. Whether you’re a history buff, a student, or someone looking to honor the memories of a generation that sacrificed so much, this experience offers a rare and meaningful journey through time.

History Hour Unplugged
2025-04-12 14:00 - 15:00
History Hour: Unplugged
Join us for an unforgettable hour of Candid Conversation on Saturday, April 12, at 2:00 PM with Lieutenant Colonel Michael “Mickey” Coe as he shares his firsthand account of the devastating U.S. Embassy bombing in Beirut on April 18, 1983. On that day, a suicide bomber drove a pickup truck to the east entrance of the U.S. Embassy, where it detonated. This incident marked the first recorded suicide attack on a U.S. diplomatic post and signified a turning point in global terrorism.
History Hour: Unplugged provides unique, personal insight into a significant historical moment. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear Lt. Col. Coe’s compelling story and gain deeper insight into an event that changed the course of U.S. foreign policy.

Those Who Served
2025-04-26 10:00 - 2025-04-27 17:00
Fifty years ago, on April 30, 1975, Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese Army, marking the end of the Vietnam War. We invite you to join us on April 26 and 27 as we honor those who served in the war. Come and read and hear their stories of service, honor, and sacrifice. Walk through a tent camp and view military vehicles used by the U.S. Army and Marine Corps. For too long, the bravery of the men and women who served during the Vietnam War has been overlooked. Join us on this special weekend as we remember their service and pay tribute to their bravery and courage.

Remembering the Fallen 2025
2025-05-25 14:45 - 15:15
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them. “For the Fallen” by Laurence Binyon
Memorial Day is the time we, as a Nation, set aside to remember those who have fallen in service to our country.
Join us on Sunday, May 25 at 3 PM as we Remember the Fallen on Memorial Day Weekend. Our Armored Support Group will perform a 21-gun salute featuring three cannons – the French 75 mm field gun representing WWI, the 75 mm pack Howitzer representing WWII, and the 105 mm Howitzer representing the Vietnam War.

The 21-gun salute is a free outdoor event.

Remembering D-Day 2025
2025-06-07 10:00 - 17:00
Join the Museum of the American G.I. on June 7th as we commemorate the 81st Anniversary of D-Day! Come learn what our soldiers faced during this historic event while exploring the uniforms, weapons, and equipment used during the Battle of Normandy. This family-friendly event will have enjoyable hands-on activities for children of all ages.

History Adventures Grace Banker
2025-06-07 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-06-14 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-06-21 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-06-28 10:30 - 11:00
Join us Saturdays at 10:30 AM for our new children’s storytime program, History Adventures. Every Saturday in June, we will be reading “Grace Banker and Her Hello Girls Answer the Call” by Claudia Friddell and Elizabeth Baddeley.
This story follows Grace Banker and her team of telephone operators – known as the “Hello Girls”- as they risked their lives to maintain vital communication lines on the frontlines of France. Their courage and dedication played a crucial role in the success of the American Expeditionary Forces.

Home Alive in 45
2025-07-12 10:00 - 17:00
Join us on July 12 as Home Alive in 45 shares the story of WWII through a special display featuring over 30 uniforms, each with a unique story to tell. Every uniform on display is accompanied by the story of the veteran who wore it. You will discover stories of enduring love, honor, and sacrifice as you learn the personal stories of the men and women who wore the uniforms.
Home Alive in 45 is brought to you by Paul McRee, a published author and professor of History at San Jacinto College.

History Adventures Star-Spangled Banner
2025-07-12 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-07-19 10:30 - 11:00, 2025-07-26 10:30 - 11:00
This month at History Adventures: A Children’s Storytime, we’re traveling back to the War of 1812 to discover how our national anthem came to be with Francis Scott Key’s Star-Spangled Banner by Monica Kulling and Richard Walz.
Bring your future historians to the Museum of the American G.I. starting Saturday, July 12th at 10:30 AM, and join us each Saturday as we explore this powerful moment in our nation’s history.
Included with museum admission. No registration required—just drop in!

Tanks and a Movie
2025-07-19 18:00 - 20:00
Night at the Museum: Tanks and a Movie
What’s better than a tank movie? Watching it next to the real thing!
Join us for Night at the Museum: Tanks and a Movie, a special after-hours event at the Museum of the American G.I. For one night only, we’re opening our doors for exclusive evening access to some of our favorite WWII and post-war vehicles. You’ll have the rare opportunity to get an up-close look—and even climb inside—a select few of these historic machines.
It’s a perfect evening for families, history lovers, and anyone who’s ever wanted to get hands-on with military history. Explore the museum in a whole new light as we mix discovery, fun, and a movie under the rafters.
And speaking of the movie—can you guess what we’re showing based on the event graphic? Come see if you’re right and enjoy a fan-favorite film surrounded by tanks!
Bring your curiosity, your camera, and your sense of adventure. We’ll see you there!
