On Saturday, June 14, 2025, the National Infantry Museum in Columbus, Georgia, will host one of the largest birthday celebrations in its history—a high-energy, family-friendly event marking the 250th birthday of the United States Army and its first branch, the Infantry. As one of the premier military history attractions in the nation and a proud member of the Georgia World War II Heritage Trail, the museum is inviting the entire Columbus-Fort Benning community and beyond to join in a day of remembrance, fun, and patriotic pride.
From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the museum will come alive with historical reenactments, living history interpreters, family activities, military vehicle displays, entertainment, and much more. This immersive one-day event takes the place of the museum’s annual July 4th Freedomfest, which will return in 2026—making the U.S. Army 250 Celebration a must-attend experience.
A Museum Alive with History
In honor of the U.S. Army’s founding in 1775, guests will experience the National Infantry Museum in a unique way—interactive Soldiers and living historians will be stationed throughout the galleries, bringing each era of the Army’s evolution to life. From the Revolutionary War to modern operations, visitors will engage with men and women portraying the heroes who defended the nation through its most pivotal moments, including World War II.
Reenactors will also populate World War II Street, a lifelike recreation of a wartime-era streetscape, giving guests a firsthand glimpse into daily life during the conflict. This dynamic approach helps highlight the vital role Fort Benning, Georgia, and its Soldiers played during World War II, a key theme of the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail.
Thrills for the Whole Family
There’s something for everyone at the U.S. Army 250 celebration. Huey helicopter rides over Inouye Field, courtesy of Friends of Army Aviation, offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance to fly aboard a Vietnam War-era aircraft. Tickets are available online or on-site (while supplies last).
Guests can also enjoy:
Free movies throughout the day in the Giant Screen Theater
Civil War-era cannon firings every hour
Military vehicle displays in the museum parking lot
A high-energy performance by the Maneuver Center of Excellence Rock Band
The return of the Annual Hotdog Eating Contest with two time slots to test your culinary stamina
And for the younger patriots:
Bounce houses and a uniform try-on photo station
Free kids activities and giveaways
A visit from the always-popular Clingstones mascot, Fuzzy
The Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office Gaming Trailer for tech-savvy teens
Delicious Local Eats and Vendors
No celebration is complete without great food and drinks, and the museum grounds will be transformed into a festive Food Truck Court featuring regional favorites and international flavors. Come hungry and sample offerings from:
Loaded Lemonadez
Country’s BBQ
Kona Ice of Phenix City
Jamaica Jerk Express
Big Ma Food Truck
German Food, Gifts & More LLC
Frank’s Alley
B&B Bar Tent
Buddy Row Catering
DonutNV
It’s a culinary salute to the diversity of the Army and the community it represents.
Discover the Heritage Guides
In addition to the excitement of the day, visitors are encouraged to explore the museum’s monthly Heritage Guides, a special initiative launched in 2025 to commemorate the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday. These guides offer a deep dive into historical artifacts and exhibits, curated by the museum’s experts to provide insight into the Infantry’s enduring legacy. Hard copies are available at the museum, or you can read them online for a self-guided journey through history.
Why This Matters to the Trail
As a cornerstone site on the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail, the National Infantry Museum’s celebration reflects the Trail’s mission to honor the service of the 320,000 Georgians who fought in World War II, many of whom trained at Fort Benning before heading overseas. Events like these keep their stories alive for new generations and highlight how Georgia’s military heritage continues to shape the nation.
By marking the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday with this interactive, inclusive event, the National Infantry Museum not only honors the past but inspires the future—bringing together Soldiers, veterans, families, and community members in a shared expression of gratitude and pride.
Plan Your Visit
📅 Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
🕙 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
📍 Location: National Infantry Museum, Columbus, GA
🎟️ Admission: Free (fees may apply for some activities such as Huey rides)
Don’t miss this unforgettable salute to the U.S. Army—250 years strong, and still marching forward. For more details, visit www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org.