Yellowstone Gateway Museum Curates Online Military Exhibit
The Yellowstone Gateway Museum announces a new online exhibit, “Honoring Park County Veterans: A Military History,” which tells the stories of Park County, MT servicemen and women from the Civil War to present day, including the Spanish American Philippine War, World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and the Iraq War.
Beyond individual veteran’s biographies, the exhibit highlights the challenging experiences of local residents and Montana issues during World War I, including sedition, drought, and the Spanish flu pandemic; and stories of the homefront, women, and Yellowstone National Park during World War II.
The museum is interested in hearing more stories about local people who have served (or are serving) in the military. Oral history interviews with Park County Korean War and Vietnam War veterans will soon be scheduled. Please contact Anna Simons, asimons@nps.edu, if you would like to be interviewed or if you know a veteran who should be contacted. The museum recently received a Community Closet grant, which funds the interviews and a Vietnam War exhibit. Upcoming veterans’ stories will also be added to the online exhibit. The year 2020 marks the 45th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.
King Oscar (K. O.) Nelson, U.S. Army 713th Railway Operating Battalion
The military exhibit – found HERE – is the third online exhibit now available, making history more accessible to people who are unable to climb stairs or who are looking for a rich experience from the comfort of their couch. Exploring Yellowstone through ART and Glimmers of History, a weekly post on Facebook and Instagram, are also offered.
Visit yellowstonegatewaymuseum.org to learn more, where you can also sign up for the museum’s monthly newsletter. Follow on Facebook and Instagram for future announcements.
