The Museum of American Armor will conduct their award winning World War II Encampment Weekend on Saturday, May 18, and Sunday May 19 between 10 am and 3:30 pm in cooperation with the Office of Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums, the Long Island Living History Association and co-sponsored by PSEG Long Island, Bethpage Federal Credit Union, B2K, BDG, Ltd., RIPCO, and Local 138 of the International Union of Operating Engineers.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the fateful D-Day invasion that began the liberation of Europe during World War II and the museum will mark it with vehicles representing both Allied and enemy forces. The annual encampment will include military reenactments, a parade of operational armor vehicles from the museum’s extensive collection, and interactive exhibits that highlight tactics, strategies, and equipment from the period.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said, “Our county is proud to be the host of the Armor Museum now enjoying its first decade. We have watched it grow from strength to strength in attracting visitors from throughout the United States and from as far away as Europe. Its unique presentation of operational armor provides families with a deep appreciation of what it must have been like for their grandparents to face a foe intent on destroying civilization.”
The Armor Museum’s founder and President Lawrence Kadish stated, “As we mark the tenth anniversary of the Armor Museum’s role to keep alive the legacy of freedom offered by our nation’s military, we have become a powerful educational destination for a new generation of Americans. Our World War II Weekend program is an important chapter in that `living’ textbook.”
David Burman, a Armor Museum Trustee and a partner in B2K said, “This is a profoundly personal experience for the thousands of visitors who attend this event for it immerses you in the sights and sounds when freedom for millions hung in the balance. We are proud to be co-sponsors.”
Fellow Armor Museum trustee Jason Halloren, Colonel (Ret.) and the former Deputy Commandant of West Point, observed, “The Armor Museum and the Long Island Living History Association have created a series of programs that open the door to a period of history that still directs many of today’s headlines. These immersion activities are unique, powerful, and memorable. And equally important, they serve as a lasting tribute to those who have served. It is no surprise that this annual event brings visitors from throughout the region and from overseas.”
Admission is $15 adults; $12 children 5 – 12 (under 5 are free); and $12 seniors, (60+) volunteer firefighters and veterans (Please provide ID). Tickets will be available at the gate or online a week before the May event. https://www.oldbethpagevillagerestoration.org/tickets
