Delve into the compelling history of the United States Army Transportation Corps at the US Army Transportation Museum, an institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the evolution of military mobility. From the rudimentary horse-drawn wagons of the Revolutionary War to the sophisticated armored vehicles and intricate logistical planning of modern warfare, the museum vividly narrates the Transportation Corps’ crucial role through an extensive collection of artifacts, captivating images, and detailed dioramas.
The US Army Transportation Museum boasts an impressive collection of over 7,000 artifacts, including more than 135 military vehicles on display. These exhibits, artifacts, and vehicles converge to tell the profound and often untold story of how the US Army has strategically moved its forces “to and from the sounds of the guns” for over 250 years. A visit promises a journey through American history, revealing how transportation’s mission within the US Army has been instrumental in shaping the nation itself. Prepare to be moved by history, just as the Transportation Corps has moved the US Army for centuries.
Accessing the Museum
The Transportation Museum warmly welcomes all visitors with base access to explore its exhibits. For individuals aged 16 and above, valid identification is required for entry onto the base. Non-Department of Defense personnel aged 18 and older will undergo a mandatory criminal history check via VCIN/NCIC to secure base access. For comprehensive details regarding base access procedures, please refer to https://www.jble.af.mil/Home/Base-Access/.
For international visitors, please contact the museum at (757) 878-1115 to arrange your visit in advance. Please note that additional requirements apply, and a minimum of 45 days is needed for processing visitor requests.
The museum prioritizes accessibility, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. Concrete sidewalks provide smooth pathways to most outdoor displays, making the museum handicapped accessible. For directions, please consult our Contact page.
Operating Hours
Gallery Hours:
Tuesday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Closed: Sunday – Monday
Admissions and Parking:
Admission and parking are always complimentary at the museum. Ample parking space is available, easily accommodating RVs, trailers, and buses.
Guided Tours
Please note that guided tours will not be available after October 1, 2024.
Previously, the Transportation Museum offered complimentary guided tours for groups of 10 or more. These tours, lasting approximately 1.5 hours, were led by knowledgeable staff members or volunteers. Reservations were required at least two weeks in advance to ensure staff availability. For inquiries or tour reservations prior to October 1, 2024, please call (757) 878-1115.
Exhibits: A Journey Through Transportation History
The history of Army Transportation extends far beyond the Transportation Corps itself. In every conflict, the U.S. Army has faced the monumental task of acquiring transportation assets, strategizing routes, and collaborating across diverse specialties to maintain combat readiness. The museum’s exhibits showcase hundreds of unique artifacts, complemented by illuminating photos, archival documents, and detailed background information, collectively narrating the captivating saga of Transportation within the U.S. Army.
Explore Historical Eras and Pavilions:
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Colonial Era Transportation: Discover the rudimentary transportation methods of early America, where waterways and nascent roads dictated movement. Learn More
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Civil War Transportation: Witness the transformative impact of the Civil War on military transportation, as both sides developed strategic networks utilizing both traditional and emerging technologies. Learn More
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Overseas Endeavors: Examine the logistical challenges of America’s first overseas military operations during the Spanish-American War and the lessons learned. Learn More
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World War I: Explore the era of innovation that birthed the Army Transport Service (ATS) and the Motor Transport Corps (MTC), marking the shift from horse-drawn wagons to motorized transport. Learn More
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Inter-War Years (1919-1940): Learn about the post-WWI efforts of the Transportation Corps in demobilization and the evolution of transportation doctrine. Learn More
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World War II: Immerse yourself in the colossal global operations of the Transportation Corps across diverse theaters, from North Africa to the Pacific. Learn More
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Korean War: Understand the Transportation Corps’ crucial role in supporting operations during the Korean War and the challenges of the Pacific theater once again. Learn More
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Cold War: Discover how the Cold War amplified and diversified the Army’s transportation needs, necessitating innovation and global reach. Learn More
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Army Transportation Experimental Vehicles: Explore the unique and often groundbreaking experimental vehicles developed to meet specific military transportation demands. Learn More
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Vietnam War: Examine the Transportation Corps’ expanded operations in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War and the logistical complexities of the conflict. Learn More
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Transportation Corps Army Officer Candidate School (OCS): Learn about the vital role of OCS in rapidly producing officers to meet the Army’s expanding needs, particularly during the Vietnam War. Learn More
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Global Contingencies: Understand the Transportation Corps’ involvement in diverse global contingency operations beyond major conflicts, including humanitarian aid and disaster relief. Learn More
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Desert Shield/Storm/Farewell: Relive the massive logistical undertaking of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and the subsequent redeployment of forces during Operation Desert Farewell. Learn More
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Global War on Terrorism: Explore the Transportation Corps’ contemporary role in the Global War on Terrorism, showcasing technological advancements and adaptations to modern warfare. Learn More
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Aviation Pavilion: Trace the evolution of Army aviation through a remarkable collection of helicopters, airplanes, and experimental aircraft. Learn More
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Marine Park: Discover the Army’s maritime capabilities with an impressive array of landing craft, tugboats, patrol boats, and amphibious vehicles. Learn More
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Rail Pavilion: Explore an extensive outdoor exhibit featuring over 35 trains and heavy equipment transporters, highlighting the Army’s rail transport history. Learn More
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Truck Pavilion: Witness the progression of the Army Jeep and other trucks from WWII to Vietnam, showcasing the evolution of tactical wheeled vehicles. Learn More
Plan Your Visit for an Immersive Experience
The U.S. Army Transportation Museum extends a warm invitation to the American public. Access to Joint Base Langley-Eustis (JBLE) is readily available with a valid state or national ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.). For detailed information on JBLE access, please visit the JBLE Visitor Center [link – same as entry page].
We recommend allocating at least two hours for a comprehensive visit to fully appreciate the museum’s offerings. With 24,000 square feet of indoor galleries and four outdoor exhibit areas, mostly sheltered, there’s much to explore. The museum is designed for self-guided tours, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
The museum is a family-friendly destination, with engaging exhibits and life-size dioramas that captivate visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
Please note that there is no café or restaurant on-site, and food and drinks are not permitted within the gallery spaces to preserve the artifacts. Audio or smartphone-based tours are not currently available.
Fun Facts and Supporting the Museum Foundation
Discover fascinating facts and stories within the museum’s exhibits, like the “Artifact of the Month” feature.
Consider supporting the Army Transportation Museum Foundation (even if not formally named), through donations or volunteering, to help preserve and expand this invaluable historical resource for future generations. Your contribution can help ensure the museum continues to educate and inspire visitors with the remarkable story of US Army transportation. Inquire at the museum about how you can contribute to its ongoing mission.
Research Resources
Please be advised that research request processing may experience delays after October 1, 2024, due to staffing limitations. We appreciate your patience and assure you that requests will be addressed as promptly as possible.
The U.S. Army Transportation Museum is a key repository, but not the exclusive archive, for materials related to the U.S. Army Transportation Corps. Numerous other archives hold relevant materials concerning the Corps, its equipment, and its personnel. For further research information.
The museum facilities may be available for reservation by public groups for official meetings or briefings, particularly US Military Command-sponsored events. Contact the museum for details on reservations and policies. Reservation Policies
Explore media resources like lectures, such as “MacArthur As A Military Leader” by Chris Kolakowski, to deepen your understanding of military leadership and history.
Learn about influential figures like General Frank S. Besson Jr., whose innovations, such as Pierced Steel Planking (PSP), significantly impacted military logistics. General Frank S. Besson Jr.
Visit the US Army Transportation Museum to witness firsthand the legacy of movement and the vital contributions of the Transportation Corps to the US Army and the nation.
