Just as a National Guard member is called a citizen soldier, so an enhanced museum is both a showcase of Missouri military history and an attraction for civilians.
A new Museum of Missouri Military History opened Sunday in its expanded location at the Ike Skelton Training Site in Jefferson City.
The interior space is more than 6,400 square feet, about seven times larger than its previous 900 square feet, and accommodates many new attractions, including vehicles and aircraft.
The location near the main gate is more visible and accessible, it is open from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Friday and there is no admission fee.
The relocation and transition reflects months of effort.
"All along the way, our staff logged hundreds of hours making sure this went without a hitch," said Maj. Gen. Steve Danner, the adjutant general. "I'm proud of the selfless service our soldiers and airmen have shown in making this project a reality."
The project included: converting former maintenance training bays into exhibit areas; replacing overhead doors with walls; installing museum-quality lighting, as well as heating and air conditioning systems; and upgrading fire suppression systems.
"I think this is going to be fantastic for the Missouri Guard and those we serve," Col. John Findley, director of Missouri National Guard facilities, said during Sunday's opening. "The museum is co-located with the Patriot Center and I am sure it will bring in lots of visitors and school groups."
Large-scale exhibits, including a restored UH-1 "Huey" helicopter, will be popular attractions, but the purpose of the museum is to inform as well as entertain.
The museum provides an opportunity for everyone to learn about the Guard's duties and service to Missouri and to the defense of our nation.
In venues as near as Ferguson and as far as Afghanistan, Guard members are deployed to protect, defend, serve, instruct and much more.
They are, as the name implies, guardians.
We salute their service and their latest contribution to our community and our state - the Museum of Missouri Military History.