Iowa Gold Star Military Museum
The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, located at Camp Dodge, 7105 NW 70th Ave. in Johnston, invites the public and to attend the fifth annual outdoor Vietnam Living History event 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, May 30 and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, May 31.
Living history interpreters and historians, wearing period correct uniforms and accouterments, will set up military displays outside of the museum and exhibit Vietnam War era inert weapons, equipment, gear and vehicles. Participants will represent the service of the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Air Force personnel in Southeast Asia in commemoration of U.S. participation during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore U.S. Army field tents furnished with military radios, cots, rations and 1960s civilian material culture. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit with Vietnam War veterans as they discuss the role of U.S. forces in Vietnam from 1965-1973.
A former U.S. Marine Corps artilleryman will explain the role of field artillery units in Vietnam and demonstrate the operation of a U.S. 105mm howitzer. The authentic living history environment will provide a hands-on historical context to the historical experiences offered by the veterans in attendance.
A unique added attraction this year is the participation of a U.S. Marine Corps UH-34 helicopter that flew missions in country during the Vietnam War. The aircraft will fly to Camp Dodge and be on exhibit during Saturday’s event.
A rare military “Boston Whaler” fiberglass boat, powered by an outboard motor and armed with an M-60 machine gun will be on exhibit. The boats were operated in Vietnam by all branches of the military for a variety of missions including ambush, interdiction, security, transport and patrol duty. Other Vietnam War era vehicles on exhibit will include a M151 Jeep in 186th Military Police markings and a M37 Dodge weapons carrier.
