45th Infantry Division Museum | Oklahoma City

The 45th Infantry Division Museum, located in Oklahoma City, is a specialized military museum dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the 45th Infantry Division, one of the most decorated divisions in U.S. Army history. It honors the soldiers who served in this unit, spanning from World War I through modern conflicts, and serves as both a tribute and an educational resource.

Origins and Purpose

The museum was established to commemorate the service of the 45th Infantry Division, which was originally formed in 1924 as part of the Oklahoma National Guard. The division earned distinction during World War II, Korea, and other engagements, with members awarded for acts of valor and service. The museum’s mission is to preserve artifacts, documents, and personal stories while educating the public about the division’s impact on both military history and Oklahoma’s heritage.

Architecture and Layout

Housed in a large facility near the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds, the museum contains multiple galleries and display areas designed to reflect different eras of the division’s service. Exhibits are arranged chronologically and thematically, giving visitors a clear understanding of the division’s evolution over time. Outdoor spaces also display military vehicles and artillery pieces.

Major Exhibits

World War I and II Galleries: Uniforms, weapons, medals, photographs, and letters that document the division’s early history and combat achievements. Artifacts highlight key campaigns such as the Italian Campaign in WWII.

Korean War Section: Displays of equipment, maps, and personal accounts detailing the division’s participation and contributions.

Modern Conflicts: Exhibits covering service in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, including the Persian Gulf War and ongoing military operations.

Hall of Valor and Memorabilia: Honors division members awarded for heroism and bravery, showcasing medals, citations, and stories.

Military Vehicles and Artillery: Tanks, jeeps, and other military hardware are displayed outdoors, providing a hands-on perspective of wartime machinery.

Special Features

Interactive Exhibits: Some galleries allow visitors to handle replicas, explore communications equipment, or simulate aspects of soldier life.

Veteran Stories: Oral histories, letters, and recorded interviews provide a personal connection to the soldiers’ experiences.

Annual Commemorative Events: The museum hosts ceremonies for Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and anniversaries of key campaigns, drawing veterans and community members.

Educational Role

The museum provides guided tours, school programs, and educational materials for students and history enthusiasts. It emphasizes leadership, service, and the sacrifices of military personnel while contextualizing Oklahoma’s role in national defense.

Visitor Experience

The museum appeals to both military history enthusiasts and general visitors interested in Oklahoma’s heritage.

Outdoor exhibits, including armored vehicles and artillery, complement the indoor galleries.

Exhibits are designed to be chronological, immersive, and informative, balancing artifacts with multimedia displays.

The 45th Infantry Division Museum stands as a tribute to the courage, dedication, and history of one of Oklahoma’s most storied military units. It preserves not only the artifacts of war but the human stories that shaped the division and the state’s identity.