Columbus Salutes the Centennial

World class training for world class soldiers, and it's in Georgia.

On Feb. 24, Fort Benning celebrated its 100th anniversary with a commemorative day at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center. The celebration, called Columbus Salutes the Centennial, highlighted the history of the infantry at Fort Benning. 

 

Soldiers arriving for demonstrations.

The celebration featured numerous activities for the public including live music, film screenings, drone demonstrations and Silver Wings parachute jumps. Popcorn and drinks were complimentary at the Rally Point Canteen, and food trucks provided a variety of other options at affordable prices.  

 

DownRange combat simulators, souvenir photo booths and a rock climbing wall were operating as part of the celebration. 

 

Skills test -- and I'm not too shabby.

The special focal point of the day was the living history performances at the museum and various locations on the campus. Dozens of Officer Candidate School students gave mini-performances and interacted with guests. 

 

Exhibit entrance.

 

War of 1812.

 

The bloodiest single-day battle in American history.

 

Parachute jumps.

 

I've got your back ...

 

Old Glory.

The goal of the performances was to help visitors truly understand the role soldiers have played throughout history.  “We are standing on the shoulders of giants,” Maj. Gen. Eric Wesley, commander of the Maneuver Center of Excellence told the students during rehearsal, “and you are bringing those giants to life.” 

 

The end of WWII.

 

The badges.

 

The Gulf Wars.

 

The faces of war.

 

A quiet moment ...

 

The end of the Cold War.

Some of the Veteran volunteers stationed at the Global War on Terrorism Memorial and the Vietnam Memorial Plaza were New York City firefighters who were on duty on 9/11. 

In addition to two jumps by the Silver Wings Parachute Team, Fort Benning’s state-of-the-art robotics and drone programs performed demonstrations. Guests could also explore a UH-60 helicopter, vintage tanks and modern fighting vehicles. 

 

The creed of our soldiers.

Columbus Salutes the Centennial was organized by the National Infantry Museum Foundation, Columbus 2025 and the Maneuver Center of Excellence.