Airborne & Special Operations Museum Foundation

Today’s the Day—Go Army, Beat Navy! This year’s Army-Navy Game uniform pays tribute to the legendary 101st Airborne Division and their heroic stand during the Battle of the Bulge. Nearly 80 years ago, the Screaming Eagles embodied their motto, Rendezvous with Destiny, when they rushed to Bastogne in response to a massive Nazi offensive. Encircled by enemy forces in freezing conditions, the 101st endured three weeks of brutal close combat. Their unyielding defense and refusal to surrender not only sapped Nazi morale but also contributed significantly to the failure of Germany’s final major offensive in World War II. Uniform Design Breakdown Colors: The color of this year's uniform reflect the canopy of fog and snow ginging way to the shadows beneath the snow-covered pine forests in the Ardennes. This environment formed the backdrop for the 101st Airborne's stubborn defense, made more difficult by the lack of air support. Jersey Invasion Star: The iconic invasion star, used on American vehicles and aircraft for battlefield identification, has seven gaps in its outer ring—representing the seven roads leading into Bastogne. “Bastogne” Patch: This patch replicates the famous road sign held by General Anthony McAuliffe in a historic photo taken after the siege was lifted. “Army” Typography: The typeface echoes the typewritten style of McAuliffe’s famous response to the Nazi demand for surrender. When asked to capitulate, McAuliffe’s one-word reply was: “Nuts!” (As Colonel Joseph Harper later clarified to a confused German delegation, it meant, “Go to hell!”). Honor the legacy. Go Army! To learn more about the 101st Airborne Division's role in the Battle of the Bulge, visit: https://lnkd.in/e-EE_vAV, or visit us at the U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Museum to see our Battle of the Bulge exhibit! Admission is free. Photos: US Army #GoArmy #BeatNavy #ArmyHistory #101stAirborneDivision

Attention, troops! General Jingle Bells is on a stealth mission—can you spot him hidden in this iconic scene at the ASOM? #elfontheshelf # #ElfOnTheShelf2024 #museumfromhome

Gander Air Disaster (December 12, 1985) On December 12, 1985, one of the U.S. Army's darkest days unfolded when Arrow Air Flight 1285 crashed shortly after takeoff in Gander, Newfoundland. The tragedy claimed all 256 lives on board, including 248 soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division. The soldiers were returning home to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, after a peacekeeping mission in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. The McDonnell Douglas DC-8 refueled in Gander before resuming its journey. Moments after takeoff, the aircraft stalled and crashed just half a mile from the runway. Investigators later identified a combination of icing on the wings and mechanical issues as contributing factors to the disaster. This catastrophic event remains one of the U.S. Army's most significant non-combat losses, leaving a profound impact on the nation and the military community. Photo: Coffins bearing the remains of the fallen soldiers were solemnly transported back to the United States, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in service to the nation. (U.S. Army) #ThisDayInHistory #ThrowbackThursday #ArmyHistory

🎶✨Spreading Holiday Cheer with the All-American Spirit! ✨🎶 The 82nd Airborne Division All American Chorus brought the holidays to life at the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum today with an unforgettable performance! 🎄 Join us at the museum this holiday season to honor these incredible heroes, explore remarkable exhibits, and celebrate the spirit of service and sacrifice that defines this community. #AllAmericanChorus #AirborneAndSpecialOperations #HolidayCheer #ASOM

Straight from the North Pole skies! 🎄☁️ General Jingle Bells makes a perfect landing with Jumpmaster Willie. Where will he be tomorrow? Stay tuned to find out! 🎅🪂 #ElfOnTheShelf2024 #elfontheshelf #fayettevillenc #fortlibertync

Get Ready for the Army-Navy Game!🏈 Get game-day ready with items from the Airborne & Special Operations Museum Store! From bold Army whiskey glasses to unique collectibles, we’ve got everything you need to cheer in style. 🛒 Visit us in-store tomorrow, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, and grab your favorites before the big game. #fayettevillenc #FortLiberty

✨ The Weasel is Out for Restoration! The ASOM's permanent gallery renovation project is making exciting progress, and today we’re spotlighting our M29 Weasel—a WWII vehicle that’s heading to Georgia for a complete restoration! Once it returns, it will take its place in a brand-new exhibit as part of our revitalized permanent galleries. What makes the M29 Weasel so special? Built by Studebaker and designed by British inventor Geoffrey Pyke, this vehicle was originally created for operations in snowy conditions, transporting troops and supplies where traditional vehicles couldn’t go. In WWII, it proved essential for navigating difficult terrain and delivering critical supplies to frontline troops across Europe. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this exciting journey of preserving and showcasing history at ASOM! #MilitaryHistory #ArmyHistory #fayettevillenc #MuseumFromHome

🎶 Live Music with the 82nd Airborne Division All American Chorus! 🇺🇸 🎄✨ Get into the holiday spirit and join us on Thursday, December 12th, at 11:30 AM for an incredible performance by the 82nd Airborne Division All American Chorus! 🎤 Enjoy a mix of holiday favorites and patriotic classics that are sure to lift your spirits and fill your heart with pride. 🤝 Following the performance, there will be a short meet and greet with the Chorus members—don’t miss your chance to say hello! 📅 Mark your calendars and join us for this special event. We look forward to celebrating the season with you! #82ndAirborne #AllAmericanChorus #HolidayMusic #PatrioticPride #CommunityEvent

We are deeply moved by the generosity shown by our supporters this past Giving Tuesday. Your contributions empower us to honor the past, educate for the future, and preserve the legacies of Airborne and Special Operations Soldiers. A special thank you to Cumberland Community Foundation, Inc. for bringing our community together to champion local nonprofits. Your leadership inspires us all to make a lasting difference. Together, we are building a stronger, more united community. Thank you for being a part of this important mission! #GivingTuesday #ThankYou #CommunityStrong CUMBERLAND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, INC.

🌟 Look who's reporting for duty! Our Elf on the Shelf is standing tall with Iron Mike at the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum. He’s ready to take on the holiday mission! 🎄🪂 Stay tuned to see where he goes next! 👀✨ #ElfOnTheShelf #AirborneMuseum #HolidayMission #IronMike