Honoring legacy & sacrifice: The U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Museum stands as a reminder of the area's military service and history

By Brian Miner, posted Oct 10, 2024 on BizFayetteville.com

The ASOM’s annual Field of Honor, brought to you by the ASOM and the Cool Spring Downtown District, is on display through Nov. 11. Each flag comes with its own story and displays a tag identifying both the person who sponsored the flag and the flag honoree. Photo by GFBJ.

Established in August 2000, the U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Museum (ASOM) stands as a premier institution dedicated to preserving, exhibiting and celebrating the rich heritage of the U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Forces. From its inception, the museum has effectively captured the culture and history of these elite forces, tracing their evolution from 1940 to the present day and beyond. Over the past two decades, ASOM has become a cornerstone in honoring the bravery and sacrifices of our nation’s soldiers.

The museum offers a unique perspective and journey through over 80 years of Army Airborne and Special Operations history. Visitors are invited to explore interactive displays, participate in educational experiences and engage in public programs that vividly illustrate the critical role these forces have played in defending and building our nation. From the harrowing streets and beaches of war-torn Normandy to the intense combat zones of Iraq and Afghanistan, the museum’s exhibits provide a powerful narrative of heroism and sacrifice.

One of the museum’s standout features is its ability to transport visitors to pivotal moments in military history. Imagine walking through a reconstructed scene of Normandy, witnessing a glider delivering a jeep into battle. Feel the intensity as you hear the roar of helicopters and see the brave troops deploying from them during the Vietnam War. Experience the dramatic rescue of Kurt Muse in Panama by observing soldiers and an MH-6 “Little Bird” in action. These immersive displays offer a glimpse into the courageous efforts of troops defending freedom around the globe.

The Airborne and Special Operations Museum chronicles the valor of soldiers from the inception of the Parachute Test Platoon to the ongoing Global War on Terrorism. It preserves the extraordinary feats performed by the United States Army’s Airborne and Special Operations Forces, showcasing their unique ability as “fighting soldiers from the sky” as they jump into battle. The museum serves as a proud testament to the men and women who have served, and continue to serve, in these prestigious units.

However, the museum’s ability to continue its vital mission is under threat due to significant losses in major funding, as the Cumberland County Commissioners voted in June to stop county funding for the ASOM Foundation, which supports the museum.

The ASOM Foundation’s funding challenges jeopardize its capacity to support public programs, educational opportunities and exhibit and grounds maintenance. Without the necessary financial support, the museum may be forced to scale back its operations, not only dimming the light on crucial chapters in military history but impacting the community’s economy and educational opportunities.

This is where the community’s support becomes crucial. By contributing to the ASOM Foundation, individuals can help preserve the museum’s ability to inspire, engage and educate future generations about the rich history of the Army’s Airborne and Special Operations Forces. Community support will ensure that the stories of bravery and sacrifice continue to be told and remembered.

A prominent event that underscores the museum’s commitment to honoring service members is the annual Field of Honor, organized by the ASOM Foundation and the Cool Spring Downtown District. This event features a living display of flags, each representing a tribute to current and past service members, as well as those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s security and freedom. From Sept. 9 to Nov. 11, 2024, these flags will be proudly displayed on the Parade Field of the U.S. Army ASOM.

Additionally, the museum hosted a temporary display of the 9/11 Memorial Flag in its lobby from Sept. 10 - Sept. 29. The handmade flag, composed of nearly 3,000 small American flags, represents the victims of the 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and Flight 93. The flag also includes 86 national flags to honor the victims’ countries of origin and flags of first responder organizations involved in rescue and recovery efforts. Created by the organization “United We Stand, United We Sew,” the flag debuted at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in 2002 and has since traveled across the country, serving as a poignant symbol of national unity and resilience.

The U.S. Army ASOM stands as a vital institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of those who have served in some of the most demanding and heroic roles in military history. Through your support, the museum can continue to educate, inspire and honor the past, ensuring that the stories of bravery and sacrifice are never forgotten.

Those wanting to provide financial support can make cash donations at boxes inside the museum at 100 Bragg Boulevard; donate online at ASOMF.org; or provide endowments through the Cumberland Community Foundation.

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