May 1, 2025 – The Georgia World War II Heritage Trail has received a major boost in visibility thanks to a feature article in the May 2025 issue of Georgia Magazine, the official publication of Georgia Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs). Reaching more than 2 million readers across the state, Georgia Magazine is one of the most widely distributed monthly publications in Georgia—and its latest coverage of the Trail offers a powerful opportunity to connect new audiences with the legacy of more than 300,000 Georgians who served during World War II.
The article, titled “Georgia’s WWII Heritage Trail honors state’s wartime legacy” presents a compelling overview of the Trail’s mission and highlights the museums and historic sites that comprise the network. Each location tells a different chapter of Georgia’s World War II story, from the skies over Europe to the shipyards and training bases that fueled the Allied victory. In doing so, the Trail offers an immersive, statewide experience that honors not only those who wore the uniform, but also the civilians who supported the war effort from the home front.
Ed Coleman, Chair of the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail, praised the article’s publication and emphasized its impact. “This feature in Georgia Magazine is a tremendous opportunity to help more Georgians discover their connection to World War II,” said Coleman. “Our mission is to ensure that the sacrifices and service of the Greatest Generation are not forgotten. By sharing these stories across the state, we’re keeping their memory alive and inspiring future generations.”
The article guides readers through several Trail’s locations, each one reflecting a unique aspect of Georgia’s wartime contributions:
National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force in Pooler tells the story of the legendary Eighth Air Force, responsible for strategic bombing missions over Nazi-occupied Europe.
World War II Home Front Museum on St. Simons Island reveals how coastal communities built Liberty ships and defended the shores.
Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins, one of the largest aviation museums in the U.S., displays aircraft and artifacts while honoring the service members stationed at Robins Air Force Base.
World War II Flight Training Museum in Douglas captures the experience of young aviators preparing for combat at civilian pilot training schools.
Currahee Military Museum in Toccoa commemorates the U.S. Army paratroopers who trained at Camp Toccoa, including the famed “Band of Brothers” of Easy Company.
Other Trail sites include the National Infantry Museum, National POW Museum at Andersonville, Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame, Commemorative Air Force Airbase Georgia, Thomaston-Upson Archives, Camp Toccoa at Currahee, and the St. Marys Submarine Museum.
The Trail, which launched in 2021, is more than a series of historical attractions—it’s a coordinated effort to preserve, interpret, and promote Georgia’s World War II history. Each participating site is committed to education, restoration, and public engagement. Through events, exhibits, student programs, and reenactments, the Trail helps modern audiences experience the stories that shaped the nation and the world.
The article also notes how the Trail serves as a model for heritage tourism. With millions of Americans interested in family history, military service, and patriotic travel, the Trail taps into a growing trend of visitors seeking meaningful, place-based experiences. For Georgia communities, the Trail provides economic benefits by encouraging tourism and strengthening local pride.
As Georgia approaches the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in 2025, the timing of this article is especially meaningful. The ranks of World War II veterans continue to dwindle—with fewer than 65,000 surviving nationwide—and the urgency to preserve their stories has never been greater.
“We are racing against time,” Coleman said. “That’s why the Trail’s work—and the visibility from features like this one—is so important. It’s not just about honoring the past. It’s about understanding how that past continues to shape who we are today as Georgians and as Americans.”
The article in Georgia Magazine offers a call to action: visit the museums, bring your children and grandchildren, talk with veterans, and explore the legacy left behind by those who fought for freedom. Readers are also encouraged to support the Trail by becoming members, donating to restoration projects, or volunteering at Trail sites.
The Trail’s inclusion in Georgia Magazine marks a major milestone for the collaborative network and affirms the enduring relevance of World War II history. Through articles like this—and the efforts of dedicated volunteers, educators, and preservationists—the stories of Georgia’s Greatest Generation continue to inspire pride, reflection, and gratitude.