FORT CAMPBELL, KY (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – After years of dreaming, planning and fundraising, Fort Campbell will finally break ground this week on the $40 million Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum, set to open late next year.
“For more than 50 years, the soldiers of Fort Campbell have been a critical force engaging in the nation’s most significant conflicts both at home and abroad. From the longest serving in the Vietnam War to firing the opening shots of Desert Storm and deploying first to Afghanistan following the 9/11 attacks, there is much to tell,” said Maj. Gen. (retired) Brian Winski, president and CEO of the Fort Campbell Historical Foundation.
“We are thrilled to finally have a place that brings to life the historic actions that embody the ideals of duty, service and patriotism on which America was founded and that the Fort Campbell Historical Foundation strives to honor,” Winski said.
Over 150 community leaders, elected officials and guests will gather for the groundbreaking event on Thursday at 10 a.m. at the museum site, at the intersection of Fort Campbell Boulevard and Tiny Town Road, according to a news release.
What sets it apart
“You can’t just hope that American citizens are going to be inspired to service. It begins with educating citizens through examples of what other people have done in years past to serve our country,” says Lt. Gen. (retired) Mike Oates, senior strategic advisor and chairman of the Board of Advisors at the Fort Campbell Historical Foundation.
As the second largest Army museum and the largest military museum between Chicago and New Orleans, the Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum will focus on the historical impact of the Fort Campbell soldier and provide a unique opportunity for Americans to learn U.S. history through the eyes of soldiers based at Fort Campbell, the release said.
“The museum will house a large concentration of Army equipment and displays related to the concept of vertical envelopment, but it will represent more than just a collection of artifacts,” said museum director Dr. John O’Brien. “The museum is a bridge connecting the military and the public. It will foster understanding and appreciation for the service of our men and women in uniform.”
On post but outside gates
Located on a 33-acre site at Tiny Town and 41A, the new museum is technically on post but is outside the military gates. This makes the museum much more accessible without the need for on-post access, which is required at the current museum.
“The new museum being outside the gates is a game-changer for people who want to come out and visit the museum,” Winski said. “Since 9/11, military base access has been more and more restrictive. The new museum will be readily accessible, and much more of the public will be able to visit and get inspired by exploring the history and legacy of the great units that call Fort Campbell home. This museum will be where the community and Fort Campbell meet and will connect our soldiers with the citizens they serve.”
Admission will be free and is expected to be particularly popular with bus tours, military reunions, and as an educational resource for visitors of all ages.
PREVIOUSLY: State pours $20 million into newly named Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum in Clarksville
The museum promises to be a regional draw, with supporters from Nashville backing the effort, along with national leaders such as former Fort Campbell Commanding General David Petraeus.
“The Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum will convey an important message to young people about the commitment of men and women in defending America’s freedom over the years. It will be a stellar asset for tourism in our region,” says Ralph Schulz, President and CEO of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce.
“We need the Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum to bring our extraordinary history to life, to remind those who have served of the importance of what they have done, to inspire and instill pride in those currently serving and future generations, and to remind all Americans of the extraordinary privilege of serving a cause larger than self,” Petraeus said.
Phased rollout of construction
The $40 million project will roll out in phases, with Phase One expected to be open in late 2025. This will include offices, a welcoming entrance, and a 41,000-square-foot exhibit hall with traditional artifacts such as weapons and uniforms, a detailed chronology wall of battles, and updated and interactive exhibits.
“We intend for the museum to bring history to life and let the visitors explore all the facets of what the exhibits and displays convey. The key is interactive and immersive exhibits that captivate the visitor,” says Pete Kinney, chairman of the Fort Campbell Historical Foundation Board of Trustees.
The main exhibit hall will also feature a display of a Chinook helicopter from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.
“We want to tell the stories of the 160th, and the MH47 will do just that. This particular aircraft was involved in every major action the Night Stalkers have been a part of. It will be a striking and awesome interactive experience that will be one of the centerpieces of the museum,” Winski said.
While Phase One is fully funded, additional support is crucial to complete the subsequent phases. Phase Two A, which includes an atrium and gift shop, requires an estimated $6 million in funding. This must be raised by the end of June 2024 to avoid increased construction costs.
“Funding for the atrium is desperately needed. This is where we will host education programs, hold special events like promotions and retirements, and will serve as event space for presentations and events for the soldiers of Fort Campbell and members of the community,” Winski said.
Phase Two B, estimated at $15 million, will add an Education Outreach Center with a large multipurpose event space, classrooms, and additional offices. Future plans also include Phase Three, which will feature a Memorial Park with outdoor exhibits.
Once all phases are complete, the space will span over 60,000 square feet. That is more than four times the size of the current museum.
“The new and improved Wings of Liberty Museum will provide a comprehensive space for the public to learn about and appreciate the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women and will serve as a lasting tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of our soldiers, ensuring their stories are preserved for future generations,” Oates said.
How you can help
For more information on how to donate, visit the Tennessee Wings of Liberty Museum website.
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