As the U.S. Army commemorates its 250th anniversary in June 2025, there’s no better place to honor its enduring legacy than at the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center (USAHEC) in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Nestled in the heart of Cumberland Valley, this world-class institution is more than just a library, archive, and museum — it’s a living tribute to the service, sacrifice, and strategic evolution of America’s Army.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply someone seeking a meaningful weekend getaway, USAHEC offers an experience unlike any other — one that educates, inspires, and connects visitors to the rich tapestry of American history through the lens of the U.S. Army.
A Mission That Connects the Public to the Army
At its core, USAHEC's mission is to collect, preserve, and present the evolution and application of landpower, along with the lived experiences of American soldiers. This isn't just military history — it's American history, told through the biographies, decisions, and sacrifices of the men and women who have served.
The center serves as a foundation for strategic thought, connecting the past to the present and offering insight into the development of military policy and leadership. As its vision states, USAHEC aspires to be the choice institution of U.S. Army history, inspiring audiences both within and beyond the military to understand the United States through its Army.
A Premier Destination for History Lovers and Military Scholars
What sets USAHEC apart is the breadth and depth of its collections. Visitors can explore artifacts like General Omar Bradley’s personal papers, detailed D-Day maps, and historic documents that span over two centuries of service. These incredible artifacts are a testament to the nation's memory and paint a picture of Army history that is woven into American history.
“At USHEC, we believe that Army history is American history. We not only are the premier archive of the U.S. Army, telling its history through a biographical lens, but we also are one of the top ten free museums in the nation, as reflected in the recent Newsweek 2025 Reader’s Choice. We boast accessible spaces that cater to all ages and a variety of interests. I am so excited about what the USAHEC team has in store for the Army’s 250th anniversary with its roster of engaging events and exhibitions,” notes Dr. Kate Lemay, Director, USAHEC.
One of the hidden gems on the 54-acre campus is a rare sculpture titled The Standing Lincoln by Augustus Saint-Gaudens — one of only 25 castings of this celebrated work. While not normally available for public viewing, the sculpture will be part of the newest exhibit celebrating the Army’s 250th anniversary.
The campus boasts 112,000 square feet of building space, a vast library and archive, an engaging museum, and the immersive Army Heritage Trail, a one-mile outdoor path lined with 15 historical structures and 17 macro artifacts, including helicopters, tanks, and reconstructed military encampments.
In 2024 alone, over 45,000 visitors explored the facility — a number that’s growing as more people discover this remarkable place.
Deep Roots in the Local Community
While USAHEC holds national significance, it is also deeply embedded in the fabric of Cumberland Valley. Its collections and programs draw veterans, students, military families, and researchers — but also invite local residents and casual tourists to engage with history in a meaningful way.
From popular events like the Army Expo, which drew over 7,000 attendees, to its ongoing connection with the U.S. Army War College, USAHEC is helping to foster a sense of community pride and understanding.
While the U.S. Army tends to maintain a low profile, the Army Heritage Center Foundation plays a crucial role in expanding outreach and fundraising, ensuring that the public-facing mission of USAHEC continues to thrive.
A 250th Anniversary Worth Celebrating
Timed perfectly with the U.S. Army’s milestone anniversary, USAHEC unveiled a new exhibition titled “This We’ll Defend: Celebrating 250 Years of Army History,” a one-of-a-kind exhibit built around staff-selected artifacts — each paired with personal stories and perspectives from members of the Army War College and USAHEC staff. It’s a tribute not only to the institution’s commitment to preserving Army history but also to the people behind the mission, bringing a human voice to powerful artifacts and moments in time.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy in the Making
USAHEC houses more than:
- 11 million manuscripts
- 1.4 million photographs
- 236,000+ books
- 600 oral histories
- 500 General Officer collections
It is a permanent repository for U.S. Army leadership and a teaching institution for future military strategists. As USAHEC works toward digitization, expanding access to its vast archives, and creating a more interactive experience to show the breadth and scope of the Army’s mission and activities, its role as a national treasure and regional tourism asset will only continue to grow.
Plan Your Visit — or Get Involved
Interested in supporting the mission? Volunteer opportunities and donor programs are available through the Army Heritage Center Foundation—a perfect way for locals and visitors alike to leave a lasting impact.
“The U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center is a welcoming and exciting experience for patrons of all ages and backgrounds. Situated in historic Carlisle, the Center will capture your imagination and your heart, and it complements Cumberland Valley's other engaging and enjoyable historic attractions,” notes Julie Germany, president of the Army Heritage Center Foundation.
Whether you’re planning your next weekend escape to Cumberland Valley, a research trip, or just want to explore a slice of history, USAHEC offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of America’s military past.
