The Armed Forces History Museum in Largo is hosting a special Memorial Day family celebration. It's happening on Monday, complete with armored vehicle rides, a wreath laying ceremony and a look inside America's military history.

  • Museum is hosting Memorial Day celebration Monday
  • Proceeds allow local school children to visit, learn about their history
  • Artifacts from WWI, WWII and several contemporary conflicts

When you visit the Pearl Harbor Room at the Armed Forces History Museum in Largo, it’s like walking into history.

For sales and marketing coordinator Chelsea Allison, it’s her favorite room.

There are model boats from the movie set of World War II drama “Tora! Tora! Tora!,” and footage from the day of the attack. The sounds of war reverberate throughout the room.

"We have interactive displays that navigate you through all of the world's conflicts," said Allison.

In addition to the attack that catapulted the United States into World War II, there are recreations of World War I bunkers.

But it doesn’t stop there.

The history continues through modern day conflicts, including artifacts from Operation Desert Storm and even a uniform that reportedly once belonged to former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein.

According to museum curators, these displays and instruments of war are a reminder of what the holiday weekend is really for.

"It's about honoring those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in service,” said Allison.

The money raised from this Memorial Day celebration will go toward the museum's Operation Education program, which provides free visits to the museum for children from Pasco, Hillsborough and Pinellas County.

 

EVENT DETAILS

  • Celebration begins at 9 a.m. Monday
  • Wreath laying ceremony is at 11:50 a.m., representatives from all United States military branches will be in attendance
  • 2050 34th Way N, Largo
  • For more information visit armedforcesmuseum.com