Hats Off to Our Veterans!

Each year on Nov. 11, we honor the brave men and women who have served our country. We pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, and we express gratitude to those who have stood on the frontlines, ensuring our safety and liberty over the years. 

For a deeper understanding of the U.S. Armed Forces, visit the Military Museum within the Greater Southwest Historical Museum  (GSHM) in Ardmore.

The museum is filled with history and artifacts in every corner. Every military branch is represented, with displays starting with the Mexican-American War of 1847 and continuing through to Desert Storm, which ended in 1991. 

A notable distinction for the Military Museum is displaying uniforms of the seven uniformed services of the United States.

There are exhibits dedicated to military happenings in Oklahoma and the Ardmore area throughout the museum. But, there is one exhibit that stands out. The crash of the American Flyers Airline that was carrying 92 Army recruits and six crewmembers on April 22, 1966. Only 15 people survived the crash.

The plane crash impacted more people than just those involved. It impacted the city of Ardmore. The museum recently held a reunion for the remaining survivors and emergency workers. 

There is much to take away from what is on display and much to learn from at the GSHM. If you have a couple of hours during your week or weekend, please feel free to stop and ask for Wes Hull. Have him take you on a tour; you’ll be glad you did.