The Armed Forces Military Museum

General George Marshall’s WWII Career

alon2392 — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:17:38 +0000

Overview of Marshall’s Early Military Life

General George Marshall, considered by many to be one of the top US Generals of World War II, began his military career in the United States Army in 1902 after graduating from Virginia Military Institute. During WWI, Marshall was involved in the planning of

Marshall as First Captain at Virginia Military Institute

both training and operations, including his role as director of training and planning for the 1^st Infantry Division. He would eventually receive a promotion to the American Expeditionary Forces in 1918 and work closely with General Pershing, a major planner of the US operations.

Between the wars Marshall found himself assigned as aide-de-camp to Pershing. He was also considered a key planner in the War Department. In addition, Marshal was commander of the 15^th Infantry Regiment stationed in China and also taught at the Army War College. In 1927, Marshall became a Lieutenant Colonel and was assigned to Ft. Benning, GA as an assistant commander. While at Ft. Benning, Marshall was responsible for initiating some major changes.

In 1936, George Marshall received a promotion to Brigadier General and in 1938 he was assigned to the War Plans Division in Washington DC. Many thought any hopes of a military career would have ended when he was the only individual to voice disapproval to a plan President Roosevelt revealed which would provide aircraft to England to assist in supporting the war efforts. Instead, the resulting action was his being nominated by President Roosevelt to become the Army Chief of Staff, a post he would maintain until the end of WWII. He was promoted to General in September of 1939.

General Marshall and World War II

While serving as Chief of Staff, Marshall managed to organize the largest military expansion in the history of the United States. What began as an outdated, poorly equipped army of only 189,000 men was soon transformed into a modern, large-scale expansion for the US Army. Though Marshall never led any troops into combat, he was organized and possessed a talent when it came to inspiring other officers. Marshall recommended and/or picked many of the US generals who received top commands during World War II including Eisenhower, McNair and Bradley.

Military Forces Expand Exponentially

In 1942, Marshall was looking at the need to increase US military forces three fold (a total of over 8 million soldiers). He directed General McNair to begin focusing on efforts which would result in the rapid production of large numbers of soldiers. When McNair presented his concept, Marshall was in full agreement to abbreviating the men’s training schedule when they entered the Army, but was not supportive of the ideas presented to him by McNair regarding airborne forces. The training for incoming soldiers would focus on land force training including basic infantry skills, weapons ability and combat strategies. The lack of combat experience of US commanders at the lower level initially resulted in serious setbacks in the African Campaigns. Well into the war, the US soldiers were still not receiving adequate training to optimally prepare them for deployment against the German forces and the modern tactics being used.

Marshall’s System Is Criticized

Marshall originally intended for the Army to consist of a 200 divisions which would rotate – a practice used by the British and other Allies. By the middle of 1943, Marshall was getting pressure from the government and business leaders to conserve manpower which was in great demand for both industry and agriculture. As a result, Marshall changed the plans to include a 90-division Army with those already in combat – being replaced with new recruits as they finish their initial training – known as the Individual Replacement System (IRS). Once implemented, problems with unit cohesion developed.

By late 1944, the system broke down completely in areas of Europe where there were few breaks in combat with the German forces. As a result, replacements were quickly trained and re-assigned as infantry. They, along with service personnel who also were used as replacements, received a six-week training refresher course and transferred into front-line combats where Army divisions were locked in. This resulted in many of the men lacking proper knowledge for using even their own rifles or weapons. Once they found themselves in combat, they were unable to receive any further practical instructions from the veterans in the field. The lack of proper training often resulted in their being killed or wounded generally within the first four days of combat. Morale became low, battle fatigue set in and physical illness was prevalent. Incidences of AWOL and self-inflicted wounds rose dramatically in the final eight months of the war.

Emotions were also mixed during this time about Marshall’s choices for field commanders. Choices such as Dwight D. Eisenhower were lauded, but his decision to recommend Lloyd Fredendall to Eisenhower for a North African major command position during Operation Torch was later regretted by both.

Plans for Invading Europe

Marshall was instrumental in preparing the US Army and Army Air Forces during World War II for invading Europe. A document he wrote became the central strategy not only for the US, but for all Allied operations in Europe as well. His initial plan to execute

Operation Overlord on April 1, 1943 was strongly opposed by Winton Churchill. Instead, Churchill persuaded Roosevelt to use the troops for the invasion of Italy in Operation Husky. Some speculate the war may have ended a year earlier had Marshall had his way. Others, however, felt it would have resulted in complete failure.

Many assumed Marshall would be assigned Supreme Commander of Operation Overlord. However, Roosevelt chose Eisenhower instead. Despite his successful endeavors with both Congress and the President, Marshall refused to lobby for the position. Roosevelt later state he was uneasy about losing Marshall’s presence in the states.

In December of 1944, George Marshall became the first US General to be promoted to the five-star rank. Throughout the balance of the war, he continued to coordinate Allied operations for Europe and the Pacific. Marshall was named as Man of the Year by Time Magazine in 1943 and lauded by Churchill as the organizer of Allied victory. In 1945, he resigned as Chief of Staff.

Colonel Leonard T. Schroeder – 30 Years Service and First Man on Normandy Beach

alon2392 — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:09:54 +0000

The Armed Forces History Museum in Largo, FL is proud to have a display case dedicated to Colonel Leonard T. Schroeder with the boots, equipment and uniform Schroeder was wearing that infamous day in World War II when he became the first man to step foot on Normandy Beach. Other items are featured in additional display cases throughout the museum. The case above has a number of additional items also generously donated by Colonel Schroeder. His voice can be heard narrating his D-Day experience by visitors as they through the AFHM’s D-Day Diorama.

Leonard T. Schroeder Early Years

Born in Maryland on July 16, 1918, Leonard T. Schroeder would enter the United States Army in 1941 and serve the next 30 years – retiring as Colonel. Throughout his military

Leonard T. Schroeder as captain during WWII

history, Schroeder would be remembered for a number of achievements, but his most infamous moment was when he made history as the first man to step foot on Normandy Beach during the D-Day Invasion.

His military interest began after high school when his full athletic scholarship took him to the University of Maryland where he enrolled in ROTC – Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. Upon graduation in 1941, Schroeder was commissioned a second lieutenant of the United States Army and assigned to the 4^th Infantry Division. He was stationed at Camp Gordon (close to Augusta, GA) until September of 1943, at which time, his division was sent to Florida. While in Florida, the 4^th Infantry Division would begin training for assault landings using various amphibious crafts. They completed their training in January of 1944 and were then sent to the south of England. Here, they continued to practice in preparation of the Normandy Landings.

D-Day Invasion – June 6, 1944

On June 6, 1944 – the day of the D-Day Invasion – Schroeder, a 25-year old captain, was in command of 219 men in Company F – a part of the 2^nd Battalion, the 8^th Infantry Regiment and the 4^th Infantry Division. It was the 8^th Infantry Regiment that received the orders to make the first landing on Utah Beach.

The night before the landings on a ship (USS Barnett) from England to France, the men listened to General Eisenhower – Supreme Allied Commander – as he encouraged the troops in his radio address: ‘Together, we shall achieve victory.’ Later, the commanders were called together by Lt. Col. MacNeely – the 2^nd Battalion commander – to the

Troops coming ashore in Normandy

quarters of Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. Here they received their final briefing prior to the invasion. Afterwards, the officers shook hands and wished each other well. Lt. Col. MacNeely approached Schroeder (nicknamed ‘Moose’), put his arm around his shoulder and told him to “Give ‘em hell!” Schroeder replied: “Well, colonel, I’ll see you on the beach!”

Roosevelt requested Schroeder take him in his boat and get him to the shore. At the time, Roosevelt was not in the best of health. On June 6, 1944 at 2:30 in the morning, Schroeder and his company left the USS Barnett and boarded their landing craft. Before making that journey, Schroeder wrote to his wife and told her where he was and talked about his mission. He also expressed how much he loved her. Later that morning at 6:28, Schroeder’s unit – two minutes ahead of schedule – was the first of 20 landing crafts to come ashore on Utah Beach. Schroeder and his boat of 22 men (including Roosevelt) were the first to reach the beach and Schroeder became the first American soldier to set foot on the beaches of Normandy that day. He had Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. at his side.

Due to rough waters in the English Channel, close to 80% of the men on the boat were sick and as they neared the shore, the Allies were still shelling their intended destination. As Schroeder left the landing craft, he kept his pistol above the water as he waded in the last 100 yards. The soldiers all met enemy fire, underwater mines, barbed wire and even trenches. Schroeder’s mission was to move five miles inland and liberate a local village. The march would end with half his men dead and Schroeder himself shot. The two wounds he received in his left arm required hospitalization in England and eventually in South Carolina. The severity of the wounds almost forced an amputation of Schroeder’s arm.

When later asked, Schroeder said he was too frightened to think about much of anything, let alone being the first man ashore. He would be become known as ‘the first

GI to invade Europe’. Schroeder would receive several awards and decorations as a result of his actions, including a Silver Star, a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart as a result of his actions throughout World War II.

After the war, Schroeder stayed in the Army as a career officer. In his 30 years of active duty he saw combat – in addition to WWII – in Korea and Vietnam. His overseas assignments would take him to England, Turkey and Greece; and in the United States, he was stationed at Ft. Knox, KY and Ft. Meade, MD, which was close to his childhood home.

Life After Retirement

Schroeder retired a full colonel from the United States Army in 1971. He and his wife

Colonel Schroeder later in life

Margaret (with whom he had three children) moved to Largo, FL. On June 6, 1994 – the 50 year anniversary of the D-Day Landings – Retired Colonel Schroeder was honored in Normandy. He was featured on a French television broadcast and featured on the cover of the June 2, 1994 French magazine VSD along with an article written about his life and his D-Day experience. Just prior to his May 26, 2009 death, Schroeder recollected his 30 years in the service and said he still missed the comradery and the family-like brotherhood he experienced with the US Army.

Colonel Leonard T. Schroeder will always be remembered for being the first man to step foot on Utah Beach during the D-Day Landings of World War II.

Omar Bradley – General of the US Army

alon2392 — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:43:20 +0000

The military career of Omar Bradley – one of the top US Generals of World War II – began in 1915. Born in 1875, Bradley was encouraged by his Sunday school teacher to take the entrance exams for the US Military Academy at West Point. He placed second in scoring, but received the Congressional appointment when the first place scorer could not accept it. Initially, Bradley’s academics suffered due to his interest in sports. He excelled in baseball.

Entrance Into the Army

Omar Bradley at West Point

Bradley played varsity baseball for three years at West Point. He was a member of the 1914 team, in which every player who remained in the army from this team became a general. In 1915, Bradley graduated from West Point in a class that would eventually boast a total of 59 generals, including Dwight Eisenhower. Bradley was first commissioned into the infantry and assigned to the 14^th Infantry Regiment, serving on the US/Mexico border. At the start of World War I, he was promoted to a captain and transferred to Butte, Montana where he guarded the copper mines. In August of 1918, Omar Bradley joined the 19^th Infantry Division. Their initial deployment to Europe was prevented by a flu pandemic and the armistice.

After the war, Bradley taught and furthered his own studies. In 1924, he was promoted to major and then sent to Ft. Benning, Georgia for the advanced infantry course. After a brief assignment in Hawaii, Bradley went to Ft. Leavenworth and studied at the Command & General Staff School from 1928-29. After graduation, he became an instructor in tactics at the Infantry School.

While at the Infantry School, then Lt. Col. George C. Marshall lauded Bradley as being “quiet, unassuming and capable with sound common sense”. In 1936, Bradley was promoted to Lt. Col and assigned a position at the War Department. He eventually would serve directly under George Marshall, Army Chief of Staff.

In February of 1941, Omar Bradley was promoted to the temporary (wartime) rank of brigadier general, a position by-passing colonel, and made permanent in September of 1943. This temporary promotion to brigadier general permitted him to command at Ft. Benning.

Just one year later, in February of 1942, he once again received a temporary promotion, this time to major general (a rank which became permanent in September of 1944). At this time, he assumed command of the 82^nd Infantry Division and in June, Bradley transferred to the 28^th Infantry Division.

Bradley’s Early Duties in WWII

Lt. Gen. Omar Bradley, II Corps commander, consults with staff members. Bradley assumed command of II Corps, his first combat command, in April 1943 and led it through the rest of the North African campaign and the fighting in Sicily.

It wasn’t until early in 1943 that Bradley received a front-line command. He was assigned as Eisenhower’s front-line trouble-shooter in North Africa. On Bradley’s recommendation, the II Corps, which suffered devastating losses at Kasserine Pass, was completely revamped and George Patton was assigned as the corps commander. At Patton’s request, Bradley became his deputy, with Bradley retaining the right to still represent Ike. Once Bradley became active in front-line command, he was given another temporary promotion to lieutenant general (March of 1943). In April of that same year, Omar Bradley became head of the II Corps. He commanded it in the final battles of Tunisia and on into the invasion of Sicily.

Normandy

In 1944, in preparation for the invasion of France on D-Day, Bradley moved to London. He was the commander in chief of the American ground forces which were being prepped for the invasion. For the invasion itself, Bradley was given command of the US First Army. On June 10, Bradley, along with his staff, landed on-shore where they set up

Bradley (peering through glasses) at Omaha Beach.

headquarters. Bradley commanded three corps – directed towards Utah and Omaha Beaches – during Operation Overlord.

In July of that year, he was placed in charge of planning Operation Cobra. This operation involved the initial breakouts from the Normandy beachhead. The plan called for strategic bombers to attack the German defensive lines using an enormous number of bombs. Though weather initially postponed this mission, on July 25, 1944 Operation Cobra commenced. The mission used lighter explosives so resulting rubble would not impede the Allies progress. However, when 77 of the planes from the mission fell short of their target, they unintentionally dropped their bombs short of the intended targets and on their own troops. General McNair was among the deceased.

Despite this travesty, the mission was considered a success as it managed to knock out the communication system used by the Germans. As a result, they became confused and ineffective which allowed for a ground offensive attack on the infantry. Once the infantry was able to crack the German defenses, Patton was able to sweep his armored forces around the German lines. By August, the buildup in Normandy had grown to more than 900,000 men – consisting of four field armies – under the command of Bradley. This group was the single largest group to ever serve under a single field commander.

An Error in France

Omar Bradley in France

Even with the encroaching Allied movement, Hitler refused to give permission for his army to flee. Bradley and his Army Group and the XV Corps formed the southern pincer and were responsible for forming the Falaise Pocket resulting in the trapping of both the German Seventh Army as well as the Fifth Panzer Army in Normandy. Canadian forces formed the northern pincer. The attempt to surround the German Armies was thwarted when Bradley issued orders (overriding Patton’s), which resulted in a gap. Bradley was fearful the northern and southern pincer groups would clash. Leaving behind their heavier materials, an estimated 20 to 50,000 German troops were able to escape though the gap created by Bradley’s change in orders. They otherwise, would have met certain destruction. The group instead had enough time to reorganize and slow the advancement of the Allied troops into Germany and Holland. The majority of the blame was placed on Bradley (who admitted his mistake) which he had made based on some incorrect assumptions. However, Bradley in turn blamed Gen. Montgomery stating he had moved his Commonwealth troops at an incredibly slow pace.

Germany

By late September, American forces had surprised the high commanders of the Allies when they managed to reach the Siegfried Line (or Westwall). Logistics were not prepared for such a deep advancement which resulted in short fuel supplies.

Eisenhower had to decide from two strategies – one presented by Bradley and one from Montgomery. Eisenhower decided to launch Operation Market-Garden, which was opposed by Bradley who was against Montgomery receiving priority on supplies. Eisenhower, however, did not budge from his decision.

Bradley and his men were spread over a wide front which consisted of hilly country. Their large concentration of army forces still faced a number of difficulties which would result in the loss of some 33,000 American lives with the Germans still in control of one of the intended Allied targets – the Roer Dams.

Further to the south, the advancement of Patton and his Third Army was greatly hampered due to their low priority for supplies. Meanwhile, the Germans were assembling troops and necessary supplies in preparation for a surprise offensive that winter.

Battle of the Bulge

Bradley Omar and Dwight Eisenhower

Bradley’s men took the main impact of what would become known as the Battle of the Bulge. Based on logistics and command, Eisenhower assigned two of Bradley’s armies (the First and the Ninth) under the temporary command of Field-Marshal Montgomery and his 21^st Army Group. The move enraged Bradley who almost resigned as a result. In one of his last moves (April of 1945), Bradley would be part of an Allied group who would successfully take more than 300,000 prisoners.

Assessments of Bradley’s Command Style

During World War II, Bradley’s command style was publicly more polite and courteous than some of the more colorful generals of the era. Through the publications of correspondent Ernie Pyle, Bradley would become known as the GI’s general – a title that would remain with him throughout the balance of his career. He was reported to have never issued an order to anyone of any rank without first saying ‘please’. Marshall – it is believed – felt this was a misrepresentation hyped up by Pyle. Several of Bradley’s contemporaries criticized various aspects of Bradley and his leadership. Despite all this, Bradley replaced more generals and senior commanders then Patton, who – though sometimes viewed as the ‘prototype of the intolerant and impulsive commander’ – only replaced one general from his command.

Post- World War II

After the war, Bradley was appointed by President Truman as head of the Veterans Administration. He served in this position for two years after the war and was

President Truman greets Omar Bradley as Eisenhower looks on.

responsible for a number of positive changes in the health care system and education benefits received by the veterans under the GI Bill of Rights. He is credited with having a large influence on shaping the current day agency.

In 1948, Bradley was appointed as Army Chief of Staff; and in 1949, Truman appointed him as the first Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Bradley was gravely disappointed though in the post war budget cuts in the defense department. Though he voiced his opposition, he reports in his second memoirs that not fighting harder for a more sufficient defense department budget was probably the greatest mistake he made during his postwar years in Washington.

In September of 1950, Bradley was promoted to General of the Army. He was the fifth, as well as the last, man to achieve this rank. Before the end of 1950, he became first Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, a position he remained in until August of 1953 when he left active duty.

Prior to his 1953 retirement, Bradley, as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was the senior military commander at the start of the war in Korea. He was also the chief military policy maker. He was in support of Truman’s initial plan to roll back Communist aggression by taking all of North Korea. In the late 1950, after the Chinese Communists invaded North Korea, Bradley realized the rollback had to be replaced in favor of a containment strategy of North Korea. Bradley would convince Truman to relieve MacArthur of his command of the Korean theater as MacArthur was resisting administrative attempts to scale back strategic objectives. In April of 1951 in his testimony to Congress, Bradley is reported as noting that Red China was not a powerful

General Omar Bradley

nation seeking to dominate the world. He said MacArthur’s strategy would have involved the United States in the ‘wrong war, at the wrong place, with the wrong enemy’.

Retirement

General Omar Bradley retired from active military duty in August of 1953. He held a number of positions in civilian life. During the Vietnam War (1967-68), he was part of President Johnson’s Wise Men – a group of high-level advisories working on policies for the war. General Omar Bradley’s long military history, though sometimes controversial, is still considered by some to be one of the greatest Generals of World War II.

Military Life of Dwight D. Eisenhower

alon2392 — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 15:02:19 +0000

Though well-known as the 34^th President of the United States of America, Dwight D. Eisenhower also had a prominent military life, in which he became one of the top US Generals in the U.S. Army. Eisenhower’s military career began in 1915 upon his graduation from West Point Academy. His graduating class had a total of 59 members move on to become general officers. Not too long after graduating Ike fell in love and married Mamie Geneva Doud. The couple moved 35 times in their first 35 years of marriage.

Eisenhower in World War I

Upon graduation from West Point, Eisenhower was a 2^nd Lieutenant. He put in a request to be sent to the Philippines, but it was denied. Instead, he spent time in various camps in both Georgia and Texas with infantry – mainly supplies.

At the onset of World War I, Eisenhower was once again denied a requested assignment overseas. Instead, he was sent to Ft. Leavenworth, KS. In February of 1918 he was sent to Camp Meade, Maryland. When his unit was finally ordered overseas to France, he was once again disappointed as he was assigned, instead, to train the new tank corps. While in this position, Eisenhower was temporarily assigned as the (Bvt.) Lt. Colonel of the National Army.

Though they never saw combat, while training the tank corps, Ike showed great organizational skills and was quite capable of accurately assessing junior officers’ strengths. The tank corps was finally called overseas to France, but one week prior to their scheduled departure, the armistice was signed.

Between the Wars

Although Eisenhower was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for his homefront service, he found himself depressed and somewhat bitter with missing yet another opportunity to serve overseas during wartime. Just after the war ended, Eisenhower was returned to his rank of captain, but within a few days, he was promoted to a major, a rank he would hold for the next 16 years.

In 1919, Major Eisenhower was assigned to the transcontinental Army convoy. He was to begin testing vehicles and instructed to dramatize the need for better roads throughout the United States. As the convoy travelled from Washington, DC to San Francisco, they were only able to average about 5 miles per hour. (In his later years as President, this became one of Eisenhower’s signature issues.)

After the convoy, he resumed duties at Camp Meade, where he commanded a battalion of tanks. He remained stationed at Camp Meade until 1922, during which time he focused on the role a tank would play in any subsequent war(s). Ike’s close work with George Patton and other senior tank leaders strengthened his proficiency in tank warfare. Many of the superiors discouraged the new ideas of speed-oriented and offensive tank warfare. They felt it was best to continue to utilize the tank only as a supportive role for the infantry. Eisenhower even received threats of court martial for continuing to publish his recommended methods for deploying tanks.

Beginning in 1920, Eisenhower served with an extraordinary number of generals, including General Pershing, General MacArthur and General Marshall. While in the Panama Canal Zone (as executive officer to General Fox Conner), he began studying military history and theory. He later sited General Conner’s influence on his own military way of thinking. Many feel Conner is the man who shaped Eisenhower. Upon Conner’s recommendation, Ike attended the Command and General Staff College from 1925-26. He graduated at the top of his class of 245 officers. Upon graduation, he was sent to Ft. Benning, GA where he served as battalion commander until 1927.

From that time up until the early 1930s, Ike’s career somewhat slowed down. During this time, military priorities diminished as many of his friends were resigning in lieu of higher paying business jobs. When he was assigned to the American Battle Monuments Commission, which was under the direction of General John J. Pershing, he published a guide to American battlefields in Europe. He enlisted the assistance of his brother Milton, a journalist for the Agriculture Department.

His next assignment was to the Army War College where he graduated in 1928. Upon graduation, he was stationed in France for a year and then returned to serve (1929 to early 1933) as the executive officer to General Mosely, who was Assistant Secretary of War. In this position, Ike was asked to plan for the next war, a task which proved to be extremely difficult given the great depression.

Eisenhower eventually became the chief military aide to General Douglas MacArthur, who at the time was the Army Chief of Staff. Though initially against General MacArthur’s decision to take a public role against the veterans in Washington D.C. during the Bonus Army March, Ike would later write the official incident report for the Army and endorse General MacArthur’s conduct.

In 1935, Eisenhower and MacArthur travelled to the Philippines. Ike assisted the Philippine government in developing their Army. He and MacArthur had differences of opinion regarding both the role of the Philippine Army and the leadership abilities an American army officer should demonstrate. Their differences and the feelings that developed remained prevalent throughout the rest of their lives – though Ike would later emphasize that too much was read into their disagreements and he insisted their relationship continued on a positive note. Many historians felt this experience with MacArthur assisted in preparing Eisenhower for dealing with other strong personalities such as Churchill, Patton, Marshall and Montgomery. While in Manila, in 1936, Eisenhower was permanently promoted to lieutenant colonel.

In 1939, Eisenhower came back to the United States. Over the next few years, he would hold various staff positions in Washington DC, California and Texas. In October of 1941, after he successfully participated in the Louisiana Maneuvers, Eisenhower received a promotion to brigadier general. Though he was noticeably competent administratively, Eisenhower had never actually held an active command above a battalion.

The United States Enters WWII

After the December 7^th attack on Pearl Harbor, Ike was sent to Washington and assigned to General Staff where he was responsible for developing critical war plans to defeat Germany and Japan. He would serve in this position until June of 1942. He was appointed Deputy Chief and put in charge of the Pacific Defenses (under General Gerow, Chief of War Plans Division). Eventually, Ike would replace Gerow in that position. Next, Eisenhower appointed Asst. Chief of Staff and placed in charge of the new Operations Divisions, a replacement division for the War Plans Division. He served under Staff General George Marshall while in this position.

Towards the end of May in 1942, Eisenhower joined Lt. Gen. Arnold – commanding General of the Army Air Force – on a trip to London to evaluate Major General Chaney and his effectiveness as the theater commander in England. When he returned to the states in early June, his report was not favorable for Chaney or his staff. On June 23, 1942, Eisenhower was sent back to London, but this time as a replacement for Chaney as the Commanding General of the European Theater of Operations.

Operation Torch and Operation Avalanche

In November of 1942, Eisenhower was appointed as Supreme Commander Allied Force of N. African Theater of Operations. The North African Campaign was designated Operation Torch. The cooperation of the French was considered to be a necessity to the success of this campaign but Eisenhower found himself encountering some impossible situations with a number of rivals in France. His main objective focused on moving forces successfully onto Tunisia. In an effort to fulfill his objective, Eisenhower chose to support Francois Darlan (as High Commissioner in N. Africa), despite his fascist leaning. Allied leaders were astounded by this decision, but not one of them had offered Ike any previous guidance. Darlan was assassinated later in the year and Ike’s command position remained unaffected despite severe criticism. He realized, as a result, that he should maintain better communication with Allied leaders.

Eisenhower gained invaluable training in his combat command skills during Operation Torch. And in February of 1943, he was chosen to be the commander of Allied Force Headquarters. When he gained his fourth star, he relinquished command of the European Theater of Operation for the US Army and took over command of the North African Theater of Operations.

After the Axis forces surrendered in North Africa, Eisenhower successfully directed the invasion of Sicily. Once Mussolini fell from power in Italy, the Allies turned their focus to the mainland in Operation Avalanche. Some controversy arose between Eisenhower and Roosevelt and Churchill about the surrender terms (in exchange for assisting the Italians). Despite the controversy and the massive buildup of German forces, the invasion of Italy was still felt to be successful.

Operation Overlord

In December of 1943, President Roosevelt appointed Eisenhower as Supreme Allied Commander in Europe. Many felt the position should have gone to Marshall. Eisenhower would resume his command of the European Theater of Operation and a month later was officially assigned the Supreme Allied Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force. He would serve both these roles through May of 1945 – when hostilities ended in Europe. While serving in these two positions, Eisenhower was in charge of the planning and execution of the Allie’s assault on the Normandy coast in June of 1944. Code name for this mission was Operation Overlord. The mission was to liberate Western Europe and invade Germany.

Eisenhower’s past experience, as well as those of the officers and troops under him, served to strengthen and prepare them all for the Normandy landing assault. Eisenhower found himself once again in controversy with Roosevelt and other Allied leaders and officers on matters that were pertinent to the success of the landing. Other issues surrounded his bombing plan arose, but Eisenhower prevailed. Eisenhower was also able to secure the services of George Patton. D-Day turned out to be a costly, but successful endeavor.

Shortly after, many were predicting a summer victory in Europe. Eisenhower’s German roots made him more inclined to believe the fight would continue. From this point on, until the end of the war in Europe in May of 1945, Eisenhower – through his various roles – remained mindful of the unavoidable loss of life and suffering that was being experienced by the troops and their families. His awareness prompted him to personally visit each division involved in the invasion.

France Is Liberated and Europe Is Victorious

After the initial coastal assault was successful, Eisenhower remained firm on his desire to retain personal control over the land battle strategy. He found himself immersed in a number of command and supply assaults on Germany throughout France. Eisenhower worked diligently to sooth the rival of the commanders of the Allied forces and their insistence to be given priority. Some of his actions, historians feel, may have delayed the Allied victory in Europe.

Eisenhower received a promotion to General in December of 1944. Throughout this position, as well as those he held in the past, General Eisenhower continued to show his talent for both leadership and diplomacy. Despite never seeing action, he still won the respect of front-line commanders.

Also in December of that year, the German’s began a counter offensive in the Battle of the Bulge. By early 1945, Eisenhower’s repositioning his armies and the improvement in weather conditions which allowed the Air Force to engage, the German defenses began to deteriorate – both on the eastern and western fronts. On May 7, 1945, the Germans, after a devastating battle with the Soviets and the Polish, finally surrendered.

After the War

Once the Germans surrendered, Eisenhower was appointed Military Governor of the US Occupation Zone, which was based in Frankfurt am Main. He used camera crews to document the atrocities he discovered at the Nazi concentration camps and he reclassified the German POWs still in US custody as DEFs (or) disarmed enemy forces. To assist with the devastation, the food shortages and the increase of refugees in Germany, General Eisenhower made arrangements for American food to be distributed along with medical equipment.

Eisenhower returned to Washington DC in November of 1945 and replaced Marshall as the Chief of Staff of the US Army. He was mainly involved in rapidly demobilizing millions of soldiers. In 1946, Eisenhower remained confident that the Soviet Union wanted to avoid war and that the United States could maintain friendly relations with them. However, despite this and his continued support of the new United Nations involvement in controlling atomic bombs, he eventually relinquished all hopes for cooperation with the Soviets and agreed to the containment policy which would prevent Soviet expansion.

In 1948, General Eisenhower was approached by both parties to run for president but declined all offers. In 1951, Eisenhower was once again approached to run for president. He declared himself to be Republican, won the party’s nomination and eventually, the Presidency. Eisenhower would be the last president elected born in the 19^th century; and at age 62, he would also be the oldest president elected since James Buchanan in 1856. He was also the only US General to serve as President in the 20^th century.

Throughout his extensive military career, General Dwight D. Eisenhower would receive a number of awards and medals, including the Army Distinguished Service Medal, the Navy Distinguished Service Medal and the Legion of Merit.

George S. Patton and WWII

alon2392 — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 19:12:59 +0000

At the onset of World War II, before the United States became involved, George S. Patton - who would become one of the greatest Generals of WWII – was continuing to make his mark in the US Army. He spent the early years of the war building up the power of the United States’ armed forces and led several maneuvers for which his leadership was lauded. By the summer of 1942, Patton assisted in designing the plan for invading French North Africa. This invasion was known as ‘Operation Torch’.

North African Campaign

Patton (l) aboard the USS Augusta just off the coast of Africa in November of 1942. He is pictured here with Rear Admiral Henry Kent Hewitt

His command consisted of 24,000 men of the Western Task Force and 100 ships with landings in the Casablanca, Morocco area. The landings took place on November 8, 1942. Despite the opposition of the Vichy French forces, Patton’s men were able to gain the beachhead and push through the intense resistance. Within three days, Casablanca had fallen and Patton had an armistice negotiated with French General Nogues. Patton’s actions were noted by the Sultan of Morocco who then presented him with the ‘Order of Ouissam Alaouite’. Included was the following citation: The lions in their dens tremble at his approach.) Patton remained in Casablanca overseeing its conversion to a military port. In January of 1943, he hosted the Casablanca Conference.

On March 6, 1943, after German Afrika Korps defeated the US II Corps at the Battle of the Kasserine Pass, Patton was promoted to lieutenant general and given command of the II Corps, replacing Major General Lloyd Fredendall. Not long after, Patton had Omar Bradley reassigned to the II Corps as deputy commander.

The II Corps themselves were both battered and demoralized after the battle, yet Patton was ordered to take them into action in just ten days. He began implementing some stringent changes and ordered the soldiers to wear the complete uniform, which was to be cleaned and pressed. Patton also established rigorous schedules for the group along with a strict adherence to military protocol. In an effort to prepare them for the tasks that lie ahead, Patton pushed his men hard, but he also rewarded them well.

On March 17, Patton’s 1^st Infantry won the Battle of El Guettar when they successfully took Gafsa and twice managed to push both the German and Italian forces back. Over the next few months, a number of circumstances, including the relief of the commander of the 1^st Armored Division and controversy between Patton and Air Vice Marshall A.

Patton speaking with Lt. Col Lyle Bernard near Brolo, Sicily in 1943

Coningham regarding the lack of close air support for ground troops. Patton eventually turned over command of the II Corps to Bradley and returned to Casablanca where he assisted the I Armored Corps in planning Operation Husky (the invasion of Sicily).

During Operation Husky, Patton’s conduct came under scrutiny over a number of incidences. Though many were questionable two incidents which involved Patton slapping subordinates became high-profile and created national controversy. Each was reported to have been suffering from battle fatigue. Patton slapped the two young soldiers and ordered them back to the front lines. Orders were then issued by Patton to his commanders instructing them to discipline any soldier who complained of battle fatigue.

Word of Patton’s actions reached Eisenhower and upon his insistence, Patton apologized to the men individually. He also apologized to the doctors at the hospitals who witnessed the incidents and eventually to all the soldiers who were under his command. Eisenhower managed to initially keep the incidents from the media, but within a few months, Drew Pearson, a journalist, exposed it via his radio show. Former generals, including Pershing, and some members of Congress were critical of Patton. Though public opinion remained mixed, Patton’s command was deemed necessary due to his aggressive approach and winning leadership when dealing with bitter battles.

It was 11 months, however, before Patton would head up any forces in combat. Eisenhower felt Patton’s actions reflected his inability to properly exercise both discipline and self-control. It was therefore decided to place Bradley, who was of lower rank and had less experience than Patton, in charge of commanding the 1^st US Army, which was forming in England in preparation for Operation Overlord. Despite Eisenhower and Marshall’s feelings that Patton had invaluable skills as a combat commander, they saw Bradley as less impulsive making him less likely to make mistakes. In January of 1944, Patton was assigned as commander of the 3^rd US Army in England, an inexperienced combat unit who would greatly benefit from Patton’s command.

In the Eyes of the Germans

Patton was the most respected Allied commander by the German High Command. They felt he would be at the center of any European invasion from the UK. As a result, Patton became the main focus in the deception operation – Fortitude. This operation began in early 1944 and involved the Allies consistently feeding the German spies false intelligence. They were advising the spies that Patton was the put in command of the 1^st US Army Group – FUSAG – and had plans to invade Pas de Calais. This unit was in fact a ‘phantom’ army which was intricately constructed of props and decoys and fake signals based around Dover in an effort to deceive the German aircraft and convince the leaders of the Axis that a large mass was being deployed to that area.

The operation assisted in masking the actual location for the attack – Normandy. Patton maintained a low profile to further convince the Germans he was in Dover, when in reality, he was involved in training the Third Army. Operation Fortitude was successful in keeping the German 15^th Army at Pas de Calais in preparation for what they believed would be an attack by Patton. They maintained their position even after the invasion of Normandy.

Normandy Invasion

Patton with Eisenhower in Normandy in 1944

The Third Army became operational in August of 1944 under Bradley’s 12^th US Army Group. They assisted in trapping hundreds of thousand German Soldiers and often used forward scout units to assist in determining the enemy’s strengths and position. Patton used a strategy of speed and assertive offensive action with his men, but they did not see as much opposition those first few weeks of advancement as the other three field armies of the Allies.

Airborne recon was provided by lighter aircraft. Once spotted, the infantries moved in for the attack and used tanks as support. Additional armored units broke through the enemy lines and exploited any subsequent breaches which pressured the German forces and prevented them from reorganizing a unified defense. The speed with which Patton’s units advanced, forced them to rely mainly on air recon as well as tactical air support. His Third Army had more military intelligence officers than any other army. These G-2 officers were designated specifically to coordinate air strikes.

Lorraine Campaign

On August 31, 1944, Patton’s offensive came to a grinding halt when the Third Army ran out of fuel. They were just outside of Metz close to the river Moselle. Patton anticipated fuel and supplies would be maintained by the theater commanders to support the successful advances. However, when dealing with ground-war efforts, Eisenhower preferred to use a ‘broad front’ approach. He felt a single force could quickly lose its effect. Despite the constraints, Eisenhower saw the Twenty First Army Group (in Operation Market Garden) as a higher priority for supplies. Other demands also put a strain on the limited resources and added to the exhausted fuel supplies of the Third Army. Though close, Patton was unable to move into Germany and by late September, a large German Panzer counterattack was sent out to halt any further advancement of Patton and his Third Army. They were defeated however by the US 4^th Armored Division. Even though the German Panzer unit was defeated, Patton and the Third Army were ordered by Eisenhower to remain in place. The German’s, however, thought they remained due to a successful counterattack.

The halt of the Third Army in September allowed the Germans enough time to strengthen their fortress at Metz, which stalled Patton and his group and led to a near stalemate in the months to follow. During this battle (the Battle of Metz), both sides suffered heavy casualties but by the middle of November, Metz fell into the hands of the Americans. Many criticized Patton’s decision on taking the city. In fact, after the war was over, German commanders noted that Patton could have avoided the city by moving north to Luxembourg. Here, he could have cut off Germany’s Seventh Army. Others faulted Patton for not being more decisive and aggressive in deploying his troops, making this his least successful encounter.

Battle of the Bulge

In December of 1944, the German Army launched an offensive under the command of Field Marshal Gerd von Rundstedt. They made a last-ditch effort as they marched across Belgium, Luxembourg and the northeast of France. The Battle of the Bulge took place during one of the worse winters Europe had seen in many years. On December 16, 1944, a total of 29 divisions of 250,000 men attacked a weak point of the Allied lines, which allowed them to make substantial progress. This journey to the Meuse River would take place during one of the harshest winters Europe had experienced. On December 19^th, Eisenhower held a meeting with the senior Allied commanders to plan a strategy in response to the German assault.

Bradley, Eisenhower, and Patton in Europe, 1945

During this time, Patton and his Third Army were involved in heavy fighting Saarbrucken. Based on what Patton thought was the intent of the Allied command meeting, he ordered his staff to make changes and organize three individual operational contingencies which would include offensive operations in the bulge area occupied by German forces. Though Patton’s plan was questioned by Eisenhower and others, in the end, his plan allowed an opening which could provide relief and much needed supplies to the forces in Bastogne. He himself felt this was one of the most impressive operations to date.

Patton and the Third Army Advance into Germany

Patton began pushing his units into the Saarland in February of 1945 and by March, he and his Third Army had taken a number of towns and either killed, wounded or captured more than 200,000 German soldiers. Later in March, he sent 314 men along with 16 tanks and a number of other vehicles in an effort to free a POW camp located 50 miles behind enemy line. The camp was near Hammelburg and Patton’s son-in-law – Lt. Colonel Waters – was a prisoner. The raid, however, was unsuccessful and suffered devastating loss. Only 35 men returned and all the vehicles were lost. Arrangements were made to work towards a truce. Waters was asked to assist with mediation and volunteered to leave the camp along with several other men, which included a German officer. Before fellow German’s could be informed of the intent of this group, Water’s was shot in the buttocks and returned to the camp for treatment. When Eisenhower received word of this secret mission, he became enraged. Patton felt this was his only mistake throughout the war. He later declared he should have sent in a Combat Command – a force which would have been close to three times larger.

Patton and the Third Army continued to press on. By April, the group was encountering less resistance, so their main focus turned to managing the estimated 400,000 German POWs. On April 14, 1945, Patton was made a general in the US Army.

Just one of many famous quotes by Patton

Next the Third Army was given orders to head towards Bavaria and Czechoslovakia where it was anticipated the Nazi German forces would attempt one last stand. Their continued advancement from the Rhine to the Elbe resulted in the capturing of close to 33,000 square miles of German territory. Though more than 11,000 men were killed, wounded or captured, the Germans had far greater loss – more than 68,000 killed or wounded and more than 653,000 captured. From their engagement on August 1, 1944 in Normandy to the end of conflicts on May 9, 1945, the Third Army had accrued 281 days of continuous combat – crossing 24 rivers and capturing just over 81,000 square miles of territory. In all, some records estimate the Third Army managed to kill, wound or capture more and 1.8 million German soldiers.

Post World War II

When Patton learned of the Japanese surrender, he wrote the end of the war also signified an end to his usefulness to the world. He became unhappy and depressed at the thought of not fighting another war. His continued erratic behavior eventually led to his being relieved as the commander of the Third Army. He was given command of a small staff at the Fifteenth US Army Base in Bad Nauheim. He accepted the post based on his love of history. However, the position did not hold Patton’s interest. After extensive travel throughout Europe, Patton had decided to leave his post. He had planned to discuss this decision with his wife, at which time he would decide if he would request a stateside post or simply retire.

Newspaper article regarding Patton’s accident

However, on December 9, 1945, Patton was on his way to a pheasant hunting trip with Major General H. Gay when the car he was riding in was involved in an accident. Others in the car only received minor injuries, but Patton, unable to brace himself in time, hit his head and began bleeding. He began complaining that he was paralyzed and experiencing difficulty in breathing. It was confirmed he had broken neck and spinal cord injury and was – in fact – paralyzed from the neck down. For the next 12 days, Patton was in traction in an attempt to relieve the spinal pressure. The only non-medical visitors allowed were his wife. When given the news he would never again be able to ride a horse or even lead a normal life, he is reported as saying, “This is a hell of a way to die”.

On December 21, just 12 days after the accident, General George S. Patton – one of World War IIs greatest Generals – died in his sleep as a result of complications.

U.S. Army’s Youngest General – Mark W. Clark

alon2392 — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:44:13 +0000

U.S. Army Major General Mark Wayne Clark in 1943

U.S. Army’s youngest General, Mark W. Clark, is thought by many to be one of the best U.S. Generals of World War II. His service career started in April of 1917 as a graduate of West Point Academy. He was appointed as a 2^nd lieutenant of Infantry but rose quickly in rank with the rapid escalation of the United States involvement in WWI. By August of that same year, he was already a captain.

More Promotions for Clark

During WWI, Clark served in France with the US 11^th Infantry. As a result of the serious shrapnel wounds he received, he was transferred General Staff Headquarters of the First US Army and then eventually began serving with the Third Army in Germany.

Following World War I, General Marshall took note of Clark’s capabilities. From 1921 – 24, Clark served in the office of the Secretary of War as an aide. The following year (1925), he finished his professional officer’s course at the Infantry School. From there, Clark began serving as a staff officer with the 30^th Infantry in San Francisco. He then went to the Indiana National Guard where he served as a training instructor. It was during this time he received a promotion to Major (January, 1933).

Duties from 1935 through 1940

1935-36: Deputy commander of Civilian Conservation Corps in Omaha, NE
1935: Tour at Command and General Staff School
1937: Tour at Army War College
1940: Chosen to instruct at Army War College

While at the Army War College, Clark was promoted to lieutenant colonel. In August of 1941, Clark received a two grade promotion to brigadier general. As the US Army was gearing up for possible entry into WWII, Brigadier General Clark served as Assistant Chief of Staff at General Headquarters for the US Army located in Washington, DC.

Clark in WWII

Clark made significant advances during the early stages of World War II:

January, 1942: Served as Deputy Chief of Staff Army Ground Forces
May, 1942: Chief of Staff Army Ground Forces
June, 1942: Sent to England as command general of II Corps
July, 1942: Became Commanding General – Army Forces European Theater of Operations
August 1942: Deputy commander in chief of Allied Forces in N. African Theater

Clark was involved in the planning and directing of Operation Torch – the invasion plan for North Africa. He was taken into N. Africa by a British submarine – the Seraph. He arrived several weeks prior to the invasion in an effort to negotiate the surrender and ask for the cooperation of the Vichy French, which took place in October of 1942.

In November of 1942, shortly after the conclusion of the negotiations, Clark received a promotion to lieutenant general. He was eventually made commanding general of the newly formed overseas field army – the US Fifth Army. His task was to train the unit for

Clark on USS Ancon – landings at Salerno, Italy – September 1943

an assault on Italy. The invasion was scheduled for September of 1943 and known as ‘Operation Avalanche’. However, it was reported by some British historians that Clark almost failed when he landed at Salerno, citing poor planning on his part.

Also in question was his bombing of the Abbey of Monte Cassino in February of 1944. Though Clark gave the order, it was in fact based on direct orders he received from his superiors. During the Battle of the Winter Line, Clark’s conduct of operation once again came under scrutiny based on evidence which suggested he was motivated by the fame that would most certainly result from entering Rome as a ‘conqueror’.

Though Rome was liberated, it resulted in Clark failing to exploit a gap in German positions, which allowed a large number of German forces to escape and strengthen the area that was to become known as the Gothic Line. Though thanked by Pope Pius XII, others felt Clark’s action were best described as irresponsible and insubordinate.

Clark: 1944 – 1947

In December of 1944, Clark was given command of the Allied ground troops stationed in Italy. They were given the name – 15^th Army Group. And in March of 1945, Clark received his promotion to General. As the war neared an end, Clark found himself as Commander of Allied Forces in Italy and eventually US High Commissioner of Austria. In 1947, Clark would serve as deputy to the US Secretary of State. He assisted in negotiating the Austrian Treaty and upon returning home in June of 1947, he took command of the Sixth Army, whose headquarters were in San Francisco. Two years later, Clark became chief of Army Field Forces.

Later Years

In May of 1952, Clark succeeded General Ridgway as commander of the United Nations Command. After retiring from the US Army, he served as president of the prestigious military college – the Citadel – from 1954 to 1965. Clark’s military career spanned 24 years, during which time he rose through the ranks rapidly. Some feel it was due in part to his association with General George Marshall and Dwight Eisenhower.

Along with his impressive rank at such a young age, Clark accumulated a number of awards and decorations including the Distinguished Service Cross, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, WWI and WWII Victory Medals and the Korean Service Medal, just to name a few.

Though some of his military career may be considered controversial, no doubt, General Clark, the youngest U.S. Army General, and his service left an indelible mark on the history of the United States military.

May 18th – Red, White and Craft Brews Fest

alon2392 — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 14:52:15 +0000

PLEASE NOTE THE MUSEUM WILL CLOSE EARLY (1:00 PM) ON THIS DAY IN PREPARATION FOR THIS EVENT!

Back by Popular Demand – Join the Armed Forces History Museum as Maggi Tax Advisory and Veteran Solutions presents the Red, White and Craft Brews Fest being held at the museum on Saturday, May 18^th from 5 PM to 9 PM. More than 70 craft brews will be on hand for this event.

“Red, White and Craft Brewfest was excellent! Better than Brews by the Bay”…Nicole & Ken T

Enjoyed by all last year, the evening is an adventure into the culinary world of microbrews, crafts and more. Visitors sample an array of beers, experiencing the balance and characteristics of each. Learn first-hand from the craftsman about their particular style and technique. Free refreshments for everyone compliments of Florida Restaurant Purchasing Group and a souvenir cup will be given to the first 300 in attendance. Come tour our critically-acclaimed, award-winning museum and sample craft brews from around the world. Admission for this event is only $25.00.

”Great event, great venue. I look forward to this ‘Red, White and Brew’ becoming an annual or semi-annual event”…Joseph Z.

(Please note: A small service fee applies to all on-line orders and phone orders.)

Join our Red, White and Craft Brews Facebook page and learn about some of the craft brews that will be featured at this event. Each Monday between April 29th and May 13th, we’ll draw name from our Red, White and Craft Brews Facebook Like Page and that person will win two free tickets to this event.

Like the Event on Facebook

AFHM would like to remind everyone to please drink responsibly. No-one under 21 years old will be permitted at this event. There are no exceptions. Must have ID.

A special thanks to our 2013 Special Events Associate Sponsor, Clearwater Toyota. Red, White and Craft Brews Fest is also presented in part by JJ Taylor Distributors, Cigar City Brewing, tbt* and Florida Restaurant Purchasing Group.

May 19th – AFHM Build a Model Camp

alon2392 — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 11:35:38 +0000

2013 Dates Announced

Sign up today:

Build A Model Camp

Come join the fun and learn the basics of building a Level 1, snap together scale model. A brief history of model building, additional insight on various skill levels, building dioramas using your scale model and information on painting and decorating scale models is presented by the Pelikan Club.

Build a Model Camps for 2013 are being held on the following Sundays from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM:

May 19th
June 23rd
July 14th
August 11th
September 15th
October 13th

Build-A-Model Camp admission is ONLY $18. The camp package is valued at over $50 and includes:

Tour of the museum
Set of authentic military dog tags
Ride on the motion theater simulator
Scale model and supplies
Certificate
Parents are invited to sign up to join their child or they may tour the museum at a discounted rate of $9.95.

Who: Ages 8 – Adult
Location: Armed Forces History Museum
2050 34^th Way N
Largo, FL 33772
Time: 12:30 – 2:00 pm

Please register and prepay for the Build-A-Model camp by calling Kathy at 727-539-8371, ext. 110. Visit the link below for more information and to download a model camp registration form:

Build A Model Camp

May 25th – Abilities Foundation 24th Annual Wine Tasting and Silent Auction

alon2392 — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 14:50:50 +0000

NOTE: THE MUSEUM WILL BE CLOSED THIS DAY – SATURDAY 5/25/2013 TO PREPARE FOR THIS EVENT.

On Saturday, May 25, 2013 from 6 PM to 9 PM, the Abilities Foundation 24th Annual Wine Tasting and Silent Auction – Tampa Bay’s preeminent wine and food showcase presented by Raymond James – will be held at the Armed Forces History Museum in Largo, FL. Enjoy premium wines and spirits, gourmet cuisine from acclaimed chefs, fabulous auction items, live entertainment, free valet parking, and a tour of the award-winning, critically acclaimed Armed Forces History Museum. The proceeds from this year’s event will benefit job placing and housing services for wounded military veterans.

“The Abilities Foundation is the standard by which we judge charity partners across the nation.” – Napa Valley Vintners marketing director Jeff Adams.

For the second year running, Florida’s longest-running and most popular one-night wine tasting will take place at the Armed Forces History Museum in Largo, FL. The shift in venue and date change to Memorial Day weekend provides a great opportunity to accentuate the Abilities fundraising mission to assist severely injured veterans. Be sure to mark your calendar!!

Tickets
Grand Tasting tickets cost $50 in advance; $75 after May 12; and $85 at the door. Tickets for the VIP Reception include entry to the Grand Tasting and cost $75 in advance; $150 after May 12; and $175 at the door. Buy tickets online at www.abilitiesfoundation.com or call 727-600-8911.

Location
The Armed Forces History Museum is located at 2050 34^th Way N in Largo, FL. For driving information, please click on the link below. For more information about this or other events at AFHM, feel free to call the museum at (727) 539-8371.

Directions to AFHM

“Big-league tasting of extraordinary proportions. Congratulations to Abilities for putting Pinellas County on the wine-tasting map.” — Weekly Planet food critic Bonnie Boots

“This year’s ‘Best Wine Tasting’ is the Abilities Wine Tasting, which features the finest California and international wines together with great food from top Tampa Bay Restaurants. This annual benefit gets bigger every year.” — Tampa Bay Magazine

May 27th – Memorial Day Family FunFest

alon2392 — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 18:56:51 +0000

Join the Armed Forces History Museum as Maggi Tax Advisory and Veteran Solutions presents the AFHMs Annual Memorial Day Family FunFest on Monday, May 27, 2012 – from 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission to this family-friendly event is just $10 for adults and $5 for youths 4-12.

(Tickets can also be purchased at the museum, or by calling the museum at 727-539-8371. Please note: A small service fee applies to all on-line orders and phone orders.)

As in previous years, enjoy rock wall climbing, a bounce house, power bungee jumping, face painting, military dress up, photo opportunities, arts and crafts and more. Rides on a WWII M8 Greyhound Reconnaissance Vehicle will also be available at regular cost.

Food, drinks and snacks will on hand for purchase. In season’s past, this event has drawn a rollicking crowd looking to celebrate the long weekend. The Bomber Girls will also be on hand. Make Memorial Day a memorable event this year - Don’t miss out! Memorial Day Family FunFest is also brought to you by our 2013 Special Events Associate Sponsor – Clearwater Toyota. Memorial Day is brought to you in part by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine and Q105.

(Please note: A small service fee applies to all on-line orders and phone orders.)

The Armed Forces History Museum is located just off of Ulmerton on 34^th Way N (between Belcher and Starkey) in Largo, FL. Turn at the Citgo Gas Station. Click on the link below for driving directions.

Driving Directions to AFHM