Nebraska War Stories and Museums is the Title
Nebraska has always been a proud military state, a tradition that began during the first days of western settlement when protective forts dotted our landscape. Today, military enthusiasts can find reminders of our past endeavors in towns and cities across the state.
Places to see in Nebraska
At the Strategic Air & Space Museum near Ashland, visitors can view a vast collection of legendary aircraft, missiles and spacecraft, including restored relics such as the B-17 and the B-29. The museum also tells the story of the Strategic Air Command, which played a vital role during the Cold War era.
See the “little boat that won the war” at the Andrew Jackson Higgins National Memorial in Columbus. More than 20,000 of these boats, designed by a Nebraska native, were built and used as a landing craft for soldiers, allowing deployment in shallow waters for invasions such as that on Normandy Beach.
More WWII history awaits at the Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles in Lexington. Nearly 100 examples of military transportation, including helicopters, tanks, halftracks, ambulances and Jeeps, are on display along with weapons, uniforms and equipment. Step back in time at this interactive museum where you can see, touch and sit in restored vehicles.
For a mix of history and recreation, head to one of Nebraska’s many former forts, such as Fort Robinson State Park near Crawford, Fort Hartsuff State Historical Park near Burwell, Fort Kearny State Historical Park near Kearney, Fort Atkinson State Historical Park near Fort Calhoun or Fort Sidney Museum and Post Commander’s Home in Sidney.
If you love listening to the stories and examining the past, be sure to look for ways to explore Nebraska’s military history on your next road trip.
Nebraska Museums