08/06/2026
Living History at the Indiana Military Museum's Salute to Veterans of WWII
📅 September 5–6, 2026
📍 Indiana Military Museum – Vincennes, Indiana
(Scroll down for Reenactor Registration Form!)
Nestled in one of Indiana's most historic cities, the Indiana Military Museum is one of the premier military museums in the United States. Founded in 1984 by Judge Jim R. Osborne, whose lifelong passion for preserving military history began as a young collector, the museum has grown from a small private collection into a nationally recognized institution. In 2013, the museum opened its doors in Vincennes, allowing visitors to experience an even larger collection of artifacts spanning from the American Revolution to present-day conflicts. As a nonprofit organization, its mission is to preserve the stories, equipment, and sacrifices of the men and women who served while educating future generations about our military heritage.
The museum is especially well known for its impressive collection of historic military vehicles and aircraft. Visitors can see iconic World War II armor such as the M4A3E8 "Easy Eight" Sherman, the rare Japanese Type 97 Chi-Ha medium tank, the iconic Soviet T-34/85, and the M1917 light tank, alongside halftracks, jeeps, amphibious vehicles, artillery pieces, and other military transports. The aircraft collection is equally remarkable, featuring a C-47 Skytrain, C-45 Expeditor, A-26 Invader, Huey helicopter, MiG-17, MiG-21, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and many other aircraft representing decades of military aviation history. Many of the museum's vehicles are maintained in operating condition, offering visitors the rare opportunity to see these historic machines come to life!
During the Salute to WWII Veterans, the museum grounds transform into an immersive World War II encampment as reenactors from across the country portray the soldiers, show equipment, and live the daily life of the era.
Event Highlights:
• Two large public battle reenactments each day featuring armored vehicles, military trucks, artillery, and authentic battlefield demonstrations.
• Living history camps where visitors can meet reenactors portraying Allied and Axis forces, explore period equipment, and learn about the experiences of those who served during World War II.
• Militaria vendors offering military collectibles, uniforms, books, original artifacts, reproduction equipment, and historical memorabilia.
• Authentic WWII field kitchens serving breakfast both mornings and a Saturday evening meal prepared on period military stoves.
• Free admission to the museum's indoor exhibits for registered reenactors, providing access to one of the Midwest's finest military collections throughout the weekend.
So whether you're a veteran, historian, collector, reenactor, or simply someone with an interest in military history, Salute to Veterans is a great opportunity to witness history in motion, or even participate as a reenactor. Come explore one of America's finest military museums, watch historic armored vehicles roar across the battlefield, and help honor the men and women whose service shaped the world.
Reenactor registration form attached below!
Contact Robert Leinweber for any questions!
Photos from Indiana Military Museum Inc
https://forms.gle/SNSudg1dqeAMvvZeA
