Which historic military sites have been the most memorable for you?

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 17:11:15 -0400

Since many of us have the opportunity to travel the world and visit historic battlefields, which sites would you say have been the most memorable for you? For me, it has to be Belleau Wood with a good Marine buddy of mine, and the site where the 3rd Infantry Division adopted the nickname, ''Rock of the Marne'' in Mezy, France.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2017 5:14 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 17:14:17 -0400

Great pictures! I hope to see some of these sights on our travels one day. Especially when we go to Europe in a few years. Thank you for sharing SFC Private RallyPoint Member

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2017 5:31 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 17:31:40 -0400

SFC Private RallyPoint Member My favorite site to date has been Gettysburg. I am always in a reflective mood when I think of the sacrifices that were made there and the other places I have visited.

Response by SFC Dave Beran made Apr 16 at 2017 5:52 PM

SFC Dave Beran — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 17:52:13 -0400

Gettysburg, Little Big Horn, Alamo and numerous skirmish sites thru Nebraska.

Response by SCPO Morris Ramsey made Apr 16 at 2017 5:55 PM

SCPO Morris Ramsey — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 17:55:37 -0400

SFC Private RallyPoint Member,SFC Private RallyPoint Member The first great battlefield I saw was Shiloh. It created a love for other civil war sites.

Response by LTC Orlando Illi made Apr 16 at 2017 6:17 PM

LTC Orlando Illi — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 18:17:20 -0400

Mine were Verdun, Waterloo, Gettysburg, Alamo, Saratoga, Oriskany, Ticonderoga, Antietam, Vicksburg, Normandy and the Somme. In every case it was a moving experience. I don't think anyone can ever appreciate the Hell that was Verdun or the Somme. I stood on the field at Waterloo and thought about the Charge of the Royal Scots Greys and Marshall Ney. Gettysburg - standing at Lee's statue looking toward the High Water Mark of the Confederacy and thinking - what courage it took to march across that field and at the 20th Maine Monument and thinking - how close Lee came to winning that battle. At Point du Hoc - I asked myself how anyone could scale those cliffs.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Apr 16 at 2017 6:23 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 18:23:29 -0400

I went through Vicksburg in'91, great historical site.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Apr 16 at 2017 6:42 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 18:42:31 -0400

SFC Private RallyPoint Member Great job that! Wearing Blues sets the photo apart from a picture postcard!

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Apr 16 at 2017 6:49 PM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 18:49:04 -0400

USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor

Response by SSG Robert Webster made Apr 16 at 2017 7:12 PM

SSG Robert Webster — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 19:12:29 -0400

Jerusalem; Porto Bello, Chagres, Fort San Lorenzo, Panama Viejo (Panama); Cairo, Gaza, El Arish; Panmunjom, Seoul, Inchon, Munson-ni; San Jacinto, San Antonio; Washington, DC; Gettysburg; Charleston, SC; Jamestown Settlement, VA; Sackets Harbor, NY

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2017 7:41 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 19:41:44 -0400

Okinawa. This place was the site of one of the largest battles ever that lasted a month, and the location of Hacksaw Ridge. When you see the caves and jungle they fought through, it's just unreal. The Soldiers and Marines had to do WW1 style charges up cliffs. Tanks couldn't fit, and naval and artillery fire couldn't knock them out. A third of the entire population died.

Response by MGySgt James Forward made Apr 16 at 2017 8:04 PM

MGySgt James Forward — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 20:04:25 -0400

Hand Down. Belleau Wood. I found a long lost relatives name inside the chapel. Drank like 10 hand fulls of water from the fountain so hopefully I will live to 150 years old.

Response by MGySgt Rick Tyrrell made Apr 16 at 2017 8:47 PM

MGySgt Rick Tyrrell — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 20:47:18 -0400

By far climbing the hills of Iwo Jima

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Apr 16 at 2017 9:53 PM

SGT Philip Roncari — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 21:53:44 -0400

Gettysburg, have read about it since high school and have done numerous tours over the years ,for some reason the place fascinates me,the last one was run by retired Marine gunny his knowledge of the battle from both sides ,Union and Confederate was amazing.

Response by LTJG Richard Bruce made Apr 16 at 2017 10:33 PM

LTJG Richard Bruce — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 22:33:40 -0400

My grandmother's grandfather fought at Shiloh for the Ohio Infantry. My wife's ancestor fought for Louisiana.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Apr 16 at 2017 10:51 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 22:51:49 -0400

Wow! What a Question, 3 Yrs in DC Living at Ft Myers, Washington, DC, Walking thru Arlington Cemetery, Frequently Stopping at the Tomb of the Unknown. Master at Arms to COMSPAWARSYSCOM Washington, DC. Retired in Kansas City frequent Visitor to Liberty Memorial, National WWI Memorial. Commander VFW Post Prairie Village, KS. They both Left an Impression.

Response by SSG Bethany Viglietta made Apr 16 at 2017 11:14 PM

SSG Bethany Viglietta — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 23:14:27 -0400

Fantastic question. For me it's a hard choice to pick just one. My great grandfather is buried in the Ardennes Cemetery, Bastogne site of Battle of the Bulge, and Pattons grave are definitely among the top locations I have visited.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Apr 16 at 2017 11:26 PM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Sun, 16 Apr 2017 23:26:10 -0400

The battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19th 1775 in Massachusetts. Three of My own relatives marched with the Minutemen from Sudbury to battle the British at Old North Bridge in Concord on that day. The old battle road from Lexington tho Concord is a National Historic site. April 19th is a holiday in Massachusetts each year called Patriot's Day and that entire weekend there are reenactments. All the pictures here are the original locations on battle road. One picture however of the Wayside Inn in Sudbury is the location the Sudbury Minutemen including My relatives marched from. That is not along the battle road but the minutemen still march from there to reenact the battle. This battle was the shot heard around the world as the American Colonist stood up to the British Army in battle. You may also notice Battle road is not paved but dirt just as it was back in 1775. Also the taverns, homes and farms that stood then have all been restored and are still there and maintained by the National Park Service. NOTE: to see all six (6) pictures click on one of the pictures showing here.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Apr 17 at 2017 12:17 AM

CSM Charles Hayden — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 00:17:44 -0400

Concord Green and Lexington Bridge! One of my memorable visits!

Response by Cpl Gabriel F. made Apr 17 at 2017 12:43 AM

Cpl Gabriel F. — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 00:43:01 -0400

Jungle warfare training site mountain area Okinawa. We were still finding equipment, ordnance, personal effects and bones during training 1970.
The Rock of the Marne print shown was displayed in nearly every federal building and post office constructed during the 1930"s

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made Apr 17 at 2017 12:50 AM

CPT Jacob Swartout — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 00:50:48 -0400

I have seen a few battlefields as I travel around however, nothing so far that tops Pearl Harbor and visiting the USS Arizona Memorial. Too many service members lost their lives that day and their names are chiseled on a wall for all to see and pay their respects. The Battle of Pickett's Mill near Atlanta, GA. is the next up for me as I read about what took place there during the Civil War on May, 27, 1864. As a class we then took a field trip to see Pickett's Mill battle ground and walked around to discussed what happened and the results of the battle at different terrain points.

Response by 1stSgt Eugene Harless made Apr 17 at 2017 1:02 AM

1stSgt Eugene Harless — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 01:02:01 -0400

It would have to be sitting off the coast of Iwo Jima in 1991. I was on one part of the ship where we had a good view. Practically every Marine came up to look at the Island and Mount Suribachi. It was like a church or a shrine. They would just come up and lok at it for a few moments and never say a word, then go back to their berthing area.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2017 2:56 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 02:56:11 -0400

They are all good Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield, Gettysburg, Patriots Point South Carolina, USS North Carolina Wilmington North Carolina, USS Missouri USS bowfin and USS Arizona Memorial Pearl Harbor, Siegfried line Germany Saar and Fort Sumter. Too many unique places including the Queen Mary in Long Beach California.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Apr 17 at 2017 7:45 AM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 07:45:32 -0400

Does Arlington count? Watching one of the wreath presentations and listening to Taps at the end. Lucky of me and my son that is was raining, or the public would have seen an Army Captain and a Navy E6 crying.

Response by MSgt Gerald Orvis made Apr 17 at 2017 7:58 AM

MSgt Gerald Orvis — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 07:58:48 -0400

Gettysburg, PA; Antietam, MD; Malvern Hill, VA; Guilford Courthouse, NC; New Bern, NC; Fort Ligonier, PA; Okinawa, JA (Shuri Castle); Bataan and Corrigedor, Philippines; and any number of other sites, all of which (to me) are sacred ground on account of the blood shed there. I haven't been to Europe, but if I do I'd like to visit Belleau Wood and Culloden.

Response by PO3 Donald Murphy made Apr 17 at 2017 9:52 AM

PO3 Donald Murphy — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 09:52:20 -0400

Growing up in England I had the privilege to visit many of the airfields that took part in the Battle of Britain (Biggen Hill, Northolt, Oakington, etc). While visiting mainland Europe, I visited Dachau concentration/death camp and also Bastogne. From a naval standpoint, USS Hornet (recovered the Apollo 11 capsule) and USS Laffey (hit by six Kamikaze's and did not sink).

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2017 10:13 AM

CDR Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 10:13:01 -0400

Great question SFC Private RallyPoint Member ! Thanks for posting! Every site listed by fellow RPers is amazing. Took my nephew to Normandy - my second visit. Just amazing. Civil War Battlefields: two amazing staff rides at Gettysburg and Antietam. Walked New Market. Been to Dachau - sobering and sad. Here in Korea (so far) the DMZ (OP Dora and the third tunnel (quite a hike)) and Panmunjom, and the UN Cemetery in Busan (pic attached). Had a chance to see the Marshal Zhukov home and headquarters in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia, associated with the Battle of Khalkhin Gol (a battlefield I still want to see). A pic of his statute outside the home in a small park is also attached. Still many more to see. Thanks.

Response by Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire made Apr 17 at 2017 1:58 PM

Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 13:58:19 -0400

In 1987 while I was working in the U.A.E. I went back to VietNam and visited and photographed our old American Embassy. Stayed 3 days and that was enough!

Response by Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire made Apr 17 at 2017 2:02 PM

Cpl Lawrence Lavictoire — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 14:02:20 -0400

Visited back in 1983/84/86/91 in Bangkok, "Lucy's Tiger Den"! All you older vets will know
what I'm talking about.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2017 2:23 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 14:23:21 -0400

Iwo Jima and the Battle of Little Big Horn for different reasons.
I visited Iwo Jima while stationed with VMFA-212 in Iwakuni. The history of the battle is only the beginning of my interest of it. My grandmothers brothers both Marines actually went up Suribachi together, there was something about one finding out about the other brother and acquiring a jeep and finding him on the other side of the Island.

The Battle of Little Bighorn is an interesting site. As a Shoshone-Bannock Tribal member the history of that time and the various battles and massacre interested me very much. The site of the Bear River Massacre is very close second for me. Not really a battle ground so left it out.

Response by PVT Mark Brown made Apr 17 at 2017 2:27 PM

PVT Mark Brown — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 14:27:20 -0400

I haven't been to any of these famous places mentioned in various other posts however, there are some here in the San Francisco bay area that I visit whenever I get a chance. Probably the olds in SF bay is Alcatraz Island which was a military installation dating back to the Civil War. This was long before it became a Federal Penitentiary. ALso in the same area is Angel Island near the Marin County side of the bay. I have also visited Fort Point many times. Fort Point is along the coast starting at about where the Golden Gate Bridge South Land is and moving southward a short distance along the coast. This was an artillery installation originally constructed during the Civil War, updated and put to work again during WWI and finally was update once more during WWII. So that would be both Fort Point and Fort Riley. The following link will tell you more about the coastal protection installations.

https://www.cnet.com/news/a-tour-of-sf-bays-hidden-military-fortifications/

At the Presidio of San Francisco a few of the original machine gun bunkers remain in place although non-functional. On the north side of the Golden Gate, up in the Coastal Range there is an old NIKE missile site that has been preserved and is open to the pubic for tours. You can follow this link:

http://nikemissile.org/site_sf88.shtml
I have been a few times and it is just like any one of our Tac sites in Korea. This is by far my most liked historical military site in our region.

A tour of SF Bay's hidden military fortifications

Road Trip at Home: For more than a century, the U.S. considered San Francisco its most important Pacific port, so it installed countless forms of coastal defenses between the Civil and Cold wars.

Response by LT Brad McInnis made Apr 17 at 2017 3:09 PM

LT Brad McInnis — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 15:09:49 -0400

I once sailed over "Iron Bottom Sound" in Savo Sea. Kind of impactful knowing how many ships had been sunk below us. Stateside, Gettysburg has to be at the top of the list. Would really like to see the Normandy invasion memorial in France.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 18 at 2017 12:13 AM

COL Charles Williams — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 00:13:07 -0400

I am lucky enough to have been many places, but by far... it is Normandy, Point Du Hoc, and the American Cemetery, no question... Just imagine... if that mission failed... And, how and why it succeeded....

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2017 12:50 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 12:50:33 -0400

Hiroshima 1978. Everything looked relatively new, like 30 years old or so. The Peace Park and Museum was an eye-opener to the extent of damage. The dome structure of a shrine still stands almost directly below the air burst. It also had some artifacts that were interesting. They had some of the ruggedized sensors that had been emplaced by US Naval Intelligence before the "experiments". Both Hiroshima and Nagasaki were chosen for their strategic importance and political considerations, but also due to the terrain. The basin-like areas would better contain the blast to some extent, and enable the scientists to better evaluate the effects of the "devices". Possibly the greatest number of casualties ever inflicted in a matter of seconds in the recorded history of mankind. Roughly 1/2 of the 140,000 and 80,000 deaths at Hiroshima and Nagasaki respectively, died on the first day or within the initial blast. 70,000 lives gone in a matter of seconds, minutes or hours.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2017 3:04 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 15:04:15 -0400

We just conducted a Staff Ride to Normandy. Such an amazing experience!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2017 4:42 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 16:42:52 -0400

The Soviet route into Berlin at the end of WWII, Operation Market Garden, and Normandy. Staff rides while stationed in Germany.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Apr 18 at 2017 5:22 PM

PO1 John Miller — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 17:22:45 -0400

Mine would be the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor, HI. I had the honor of participating in the Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony one year and got to meet a lot of WWII/Pearl Harbor Survivor vets. Very humbling!

Response by SGT Matthew S. made Apr 18 at 2017 6:40 PM

SGT Matthew S. — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 18:40:42 -0400

Although I have a long list of sites I intend to visit, Little Big Horn is the only one I have been to. It amazes me to think what the Cavalry must have thought coming up over the hill, let alone how they managed to find the camp in the middle of nowhere like that - but yet not realize exactly what was there.

Response by COL Jon Thompson made Apr 18 at 2017 7:31 PM

COL Jon Thompson — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 19:31:48 -0400

Yorktown Battlefield for me. Last August, I was TDY at Fort Eustis and on the last day, I drove to Yorktown and did the driving tour. It was something driving through the area where George Washington had his command post and seeing the field where the British surrendered.

Response by Cpl Gabriel F. made Apr 18 at 2017 10:55 PM

Cpl Gabriel F. — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 22:55:20 -0400

April 18, 1942. Four months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, 80 crewmen on 16 B-25 bombers launched from the deck of the USS Hornet, deep in enemy waters in the Pacific. Their target: Tokyo, Japan. One of the 'sites" compass needed.
Army Air Corp crews aboard a man of war at sea. Sailors and Marines of the USS Hornet vastly out numbered in hostile seas.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 19 at 2017 12:22 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 00:22:32 -0400

I'm stationed in Germany. As an Army sergeant and a WWII fan, the trip to Omaha beach Normandy France with wife on March 2017 meant so much to me. I was running on Omaha beach holding a flag as a way to pay my respect and tribune to the men who never came home on D-Day June 6, 1944. Later, I placed the flag on top of one of the remaining German bunkers.

Response by SSG Michael LeGrand made Apr 19 at 2017 1:46 AM

SSG Michael LeGrand — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 01:46:55 -0400

As a young NCO a lifetime ago, My 1SG took us out to Luxembourg Memorial Cemetary in the town of Luxembourg that shares borders with Germany and France. It was a very sureal moment in my life. Especially to see the grave site of one of the greatest military generals we have ever had,
General George S. Patton.

Response by PO2 Ricky L. Isreal made Apr 19 at 2017 2:33 AM

PO2 Ricky L. Isreal — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 02:33:53 -0400

For me, Gettysburg before I was in and Arizona Memorial after I was in and flew my mother over to Hawaii and she was there when we saw it together.

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Apr 19 at 2017 10:55 AM

SFC J Fullerton — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 10:55:42 -0400

I have been to a few historically significant battle sites, all of them gave me the feeling of standing on sacred ground.
Gettysburg
Pearl Harbor
Little Bighorn
Chipyong-ni, Korea
I hope someday to visit the Normandy Beaches and Bastogne.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 19 at 2017 1:50 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 13:50:21 -0400

The wall at Fredricksburg, the Arizona and the Tomb of the Unknown Solider.

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 20 at 2017 10:07 AM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 10:07:48 -0400

Mine have all been military cemeteries, large or small, whether in the U.S. or on foreign soil. Military statues can certainly be visually impressive, but the simple, white marble gravemarkers hold my attention and respect, and leave a memory I will never forget.

Response by SFC Rich Gomez made Apr 20 at 2017 9:39 PM

SFC Rich Gomez — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 21:39:17 -0400

Our National Cemeteries, the Viet Nam and Korean War Memorials..... They reflect real names and how real Soldiers of our times supported each other, one other that is not American but was just as solemn and inspiring for everyone who visits the Canadian WWl Memorial in Vilmay France.

Response by MAJ Walter Meczywor made Apr 21 at 2017 1:10 PM

MAJ Walter Meczywor — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 13:10:10 -0400

Been to more than I can count but Normandy gets my vote. Omaha & Utah beaches; German gun enplacements; and above all else, the US cemetery. Next to Antitem it's the most serene place I've ever visited.

Response by SGT Kevin Berman made Apr 21 at 2017 7:06 PM

SGT Kevin Berman — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 19:06:55 -0400

While most do not view it as an military site, I'd say Washington, D.C. Why? British burned it to the ground during the War of 1812 and almost cost us our country.

Response by SPC David Shannon made Apr 25 at 2017 9:08 AM

SPC David Shannon — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 09:08:20 -0400

I have been to many of the battlefields of the Revolution, Civil War and Korea. Gettysburg is by far is the most memorable. Every time I go I can feel the energies of the battle. I can feel the solemn quiet as if the fields were guarded by the soldiers lost on the field.

Response by 1SG Mike Discher made Apr 29 at 2017 6:56 PM

1SG Mike Discher — Sat, 29 Apr 2017 18:56:08 -0400

Gettysburg.

Response by MSgt Darren VanDerwilt made Apr 30 at 2017 1:15 PM

MSgt Darren VanDerwilt — Sun, 30 Apr 2017 13:15:44 -0400

Normandy, the whole thing. Got to see every landmark, cemetery, and key point in 1980 (everything seen in the movie "The Longest Day). Stayed a night in Saint Mere Eglise, you can see bullet holes in the walls. Pointe du Hoc had huge bomb craters everywhere, signs in every language warned visitors to stay on the path because of unexploded ordinance. The German bunkers were mostly intact, the insides reek of urine (the French opinion of them). The Mulberry harbor at Gold Beach was still partially visible. Benouville "Pegasus" Bridge, where British Airborne troops captured and held the position until relieved, still appeared as it did in 1944. Very humbling to see what British, Canadian, and American forces were up against.

Response by SP5 Ed McCoy made May 9 at 2017 9:25 AM

SP5 Ed McCoy — Tue, 09 May 2017 09:25:19 -0400

Stone Mountain n all the great civil war memorials that are unfortunately being torn down by the new liberals

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2017 12:44 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 09 May 2017 12:44:21 -0400

My two most memorable that I have visited was Arlington National Cemetary and the Point Du Hoc memorial.

Response by CW3 Edison Phillips made May 9 at 2017 10:48 PM

CW3 Edison Phillips — Tue, 09 May 2017 22:48:47 -0400

Bastogne and the Battle of the Bulge was for me the most memorial place I have visited. The monuments and dedications erected by the locals to honor those who fought and died there were amazing and moving.

Response by SP5 Ward Posey made May 10 at 2017 8:50 AM

SP5 Ward Posey — Wed, 10 May 2017 08:50:23 -0400

My great grandfather fought at Gettysburg and was later wounded in the battle of the Wilderness. I have visited both those sites. Overseas - Pearl Harbor, one uncle perished there.

Response by SGM Leon Peck made May 11 at 2017 7:00 PM

SGM Leon Peck — Thu, 11 May 2017 19:00:16 -0400

As I read through all of your comments, I saw many of the places that I have been to, and a few that I haven't. Gettysburg is always on my list, but Antietam is pretty sobering. I have been to Crown Point, Fort Niagara and Ticonderoga from the French and Indian war, and Arnhem, Nijmegen and Bastogne from WWII, along with Patton's grave and Bergen-Belsen Concentration Camp. From the American Revolution, there was Fort Stanwix, Oriskany Lexington - Concord "Battle Road" and Yorktown. But the most memorable was Saratoga. I did the battlefield tour there on a staff ride as part of a Division G-3 shop. The officers and senior NCOs were each given a specific point of the battle by the G-3 and told to explain which battlefield operating system was important at that particular point in the battle. It made me look at my battlefield history in a way that I hadn't before, and let me see history in a new light.

Response by SGT(P) Landon Mintz made May 12 at 2017 8:40 PM

SGT(P) Landon Mintz — Fri, 12 May 2017 20:40:48 -0400

Kings Mountain NC, Cowpens Battlefield SC local to me but having learned the key roles they played in the revolutionary war I couldn't be more amazing I lived near such keystone sights. They shaped the world I live in today, amazing!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2017 9:40 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 May 2017 21:40:32 -0400

Was just at Arlington Cemetery for a burial ceremony of a fellow soldier. I was in awe of those hallowed grounds and at the professionalism and precision of the Old Guard burial team. It's a tough job but those men and women pull it off.

Response by MSgt John McGowan made May 15 at 2017 3:11 AM

MSgt John McGowan — Mon, 15 May 2017 03:11:12 -0400

The most recent has be Vicksburg which was a heck of a battle. I have been to some around Norfolk but years ago. Each has a story to tell.

Response by MSG Anthony Makar made May 17 at 2017 2:36 PM

MSG Anthony Makar — Wed, 17 May 2017 14:36:29 -0400

Normandy, Absolutely. I did the all the AOs From Gold to Pont du Hoc to include Saint Mere Eglise, Arromanches, Bayeux and of course Pegasus Bridge, it was a wonderful and moving experience that I do not think be duplicated ever again. My next location to visit is Anzio beachhead and Monte Casino.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made May 17 at 2017 5:06 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Wed, 17 May 2017 17:06:58 -0400

Others mentioned USS Arizona, which is my favorite. Second is the Republic of Korea military museum in Seoul. Gives a new perspective on Asian history.

Response by LCpl Michael Parker made May 20 at 2017 7:53 AM

LCpl Michael Parker — Sat, 20 May 2017 07:53:22 -0400

USS Arizona it has left a profound inpression on me & I hope my kids as they travel through their own Journey in the Millitary will make their way their as too.

Response by SPC Byron Skinner made May 20 at 2017 10:48 PM

SPC Byron Skinner — Sat, 20 May 2017 22:48:23 -0400

Sp4 Byron Skinner I have not been to all of the military museums in the country but her are four. In my native city of San Diego but there are two must see military museums. The U.S.S. Midway, an example of getting it done right. I will admit I'm a member of the Museum and had a very minor part in getting it to San Diego. The second Museum is the Marine Corp Museum at the San Diego Marine Corp Recruit Depot. This Museum is about as solum as you can get, it presents the history of the Corps and it temporary exhibits are always so inspiring and moving it is unbelievable. My wife years ago took her Cub Scout Den to the MCRD Museum. One of the fathers was a peacenik but he wa so taken he stayed the full day long after we got the kids back, he was moved. The other two. The National Museum of The Pacific War in Fredericksburg Texas, if you go to Texas just to visit this Museum the trip was worth it Interactive almost to a fault, but you can fight all of the major engagements of the Pacific War on interactive boards. The last is closed till summer call before you go. Due to reopen in late Summer. Its in Chicago Ill. At Cantingly Park. The First Division Museum This museum puts you right in the bunker, Fox Hole, Hooch or what eve was the name of where GI's tries to get away from the shells. They get so damn much right that the very few wrong items or buttons makes no difference. The Vietnam exhibit was a sandbagged bunker and as a touch they raised the temp and humidity and even got the smells right. The gentleman I went there with was a Vietnam Platoon Leader and he was knocked over by it. You don't have to be from or even like and admire the "Big Red One" (the 1/16 Infantry and 2/26 Infantry can suck my——, and the supply Depot at Xeon and Xuan Loc are still a bunch of dumb shits. Who don't want to resupply any unit if its not from the 1 ID. That said the Cantingly Museum in Chicago is first rate and I know when it reopens it will be better yet, I don't know how but they will. None of these Museum's promote war and in many subtle ways that most visitors I'm sure don't notice are anti-war, like in the !st Division Museum they reproduced the bunks from the troop ships with the giraffe from the underside of the bunks from three wars. Or the patients on a hospital ship returning from the European Theater after WW I.

Response by MAJ Montgomery Granger made May 21 at 2017 6:05 AM

MAJ Montgomery Granger — Sun, 21 May 2017 06:05:37 -0400

Although I have never been to Normandy or Pearl Harbor, and suspect those two places would rank high on the list, at the top of the list of places I have been is Gettysburg. No more profound a place in our country, for it was there that our country was reborn. Gettysburg was the beginning of the end of our Civil War. An epic, bloody and vicious fight that was the culmination of many a military career. It is a spooky and amazing location. To walk the ground at dusk, dawn or at night sends chills down the spine and raises the hair on one's neck. The vastness is mind boggling. The numbers incredible. The munitions overwhelming. The death and suffering unmatched. The most famous speech given by an American President was read there. Any American, especially any American military person, who has never been to Gettysburg should make it a point at least at some point in their lives to visit. And not just for an hour or a day, but for at least three days in order to absorb the enormity of it, the significance of it, and the relevance of it still today.

Response by TSgt Ronald Iniguez made May 21 at 2017 12:56 PM

TSgt Ronald Iniguez — Sun, 21 May 2017 12:56:15 -0400

USS Arizona and Iwo Jima as a kid in High School in Hawaii. On the wrong side of the country now to go see it!

Response by SPC Douglas Bolton made May 22 at 2017 1:44 PM

SPC Douglas Bolton — Mon, 22 May 2017 13:44:20 -0400

SFC Private RallyPoint Member There are many, Arlington Cemetery, The USS Arizona, The Vietnam wall, and recently, The National Cemetery, and Derussy Museum in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Response by CPT Larry Hudson made May 25 at 2017 5:13 PM

CPT Larry Hudson — Thu, 25 May 2017 17:13:24 -0400

Fort Gordon, Sgt York, Medal of Honor recipeant, took basic training there.
Arlington Cemetery, had honor to be asked to inspect changing of guard
Ft. Belvior, VA, historic grounds President Washingtons residence near by.
Fort Riley, KS, Gen Custer HQ 7th Cavalry
Fort Ord, CA, met General of the Army Omar Bradley.

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made May 25 at 2017 7:37 PM

SPC Brian Stephens — Thu, 25 May 2017 19:37:14 -0400

The artillery museum at Ft. Sill, especially the Lance missile exhibits. Plus the Pershing equipment, Honest John and Sergeant rocket systems that came before Lance. Atomic Annie, the Redstone Missile, and of course all the cannon artillery scattered around the grounds and the artifacts inside.

Response by MSG Michael McEleney made May 28 at 2017 12:34 PM

MSG Michael McEleney — Sun, 28 May 2017 12:34:44 -0400

The Alamo is a great location in downtown San Antonio. Makes you wonder what they were thinking when Santa Ana's army appeared

Response by MSG Michael McEleney made May 28 at 2017 12:41 PM

MSG Michael McEleney — Sun, 28 May 2017 12:41:50 -0400

Also visited the Somme and Flanders battle sites in Belgium. Well documented and very well preserved museums and trenches.

Response by MSG James Hughs made May 29 at 2017 1:24 AM

MSG James Hughs — Mon, 29 May 2017 01:24:19 -0400

MEMORABLE.... there have been several.....from the Japanese memorial in Kyoto dedicated to ALL soldiers from ALL countries who died fighting in wars... to the changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier Arlington Virginia......but for me the most memorable was while I was serving as a tactical officer at OCS.....As an assignment I had the cadets plan a trip to the Army Navy game.....they had to do everything....from arraigning transportation..... to coordinating lodging.....even the purchase of tickets.....they did an outstanding job.....the entire class was on the 60 yard line surrounded by plebs from West Point ....... Everyone except I and my junior Tac officer..... We, dressed in full army uniform, had seats on the NAVY SIDE surrounded by Naval academy cadets...... NOW THAT WAS MEMORABLE

Response by CWO4 Tim Hecht made May 29 at 2017 2:56 AM

CWO4 Tim Hecht — Mon, 29 May 2017 02:56:17 -0400

To me it is the Vietnam Memorial, better known as the wall. My first official visit to D.C., on TDY orders for a job interview at USCG Headquarters, afforded me the opportunity to visit it. I openly cried (in uniform) as I picked out the names of my shipmates who were either KIA, MIA, or lost at sea during my carrier's deployment to Vietnam in 1972-73.

The other one that gripped me with the historical significance of it is the US Military Cemetary at Omaha Beach, Normandy, France. The headstones of the 11,000 plus soldiers, sailors, airmen, Coast guardsmen, and others, who lost their lives during D-Day (and beyond) stand as a silent reminder of the sacrifices those who go before the enemy have made for our freedom.

Two other stark reminders of those sacrifices are the USS ARIZONA as we manned the rails and paid honors to as we steamed past on the MIDWAY and also Ft. Rosecrans National Cemetary, on the seaward facing side of apt Loma, San Diego; once again Manning the rail and paying honors, this time on a Coast Guard Cutter.

Those are the ones that I have seen and paid honors to.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2017 4:08 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 May 2017 04:08:41 -0400

For me, the Arlington national cemetery, especially the tomb of the unknown Soldier.

Response by PO1 Donald Vinson made Jun 1 at 2017 2:13 AM

PO1 Donald Vinson — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 02:13:32 -0400

I would day USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor, Vietnam Memorial, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, WWll Memorial Wall, Arlington National Cemetery, and a few others.

Response by SGT Anne Murchison - Vanderlaan made Jun 3 at 2017 9:20 PM

SGT Anne Murchison - Vanderlaan — Sat, 03 Jun 2017 21:20:46 -0400

USS ARIZONA Pearl Harbor

Response by 1LT Tom Wilson made Jun 4 at 2017 7:12 AM

1LT Tom Wilson — Sun, 04 Jun 2017 07:12:53 -0400

Well, aside from my own battlefields, one that stands out in my mind is on the British side of Old North Bridge where there are three graves of British soldiers. They tell the tale.

Response by CDR Jerry Womack made Jun 8 at 2017 2:21 PM

CDR Jerry Womack — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 14:21:55 -0400

Two words: Pearl Harbor.

Response by SP5 Michael Gold made Jun 8 at 2017 2:56 PM

SP5 Michael Gold — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 14:56:33 -0400

The American cemetery outside of Manila, and Corregidor; the Arizona.

Response by PO1 Gene Payne made Jun 8 at 2017 7:59 PM

PO1 Gene Payne — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 19:59:14 -0400

The USS Arizona is high on my list, but the one that hit me hardest is the Vietnam Memorial!, for one of the few times in my life, I felt the presence of the fallen.

Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made Jun 9 at 2017 12:19 PM

CAPT Hiram Patterson — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 12:19:58 -0400

USS Arizona (always a tear jerker when you see the names in marble); Corregidor with still intact coastal artillery guns and 12" mortars (at least in 1984); Wake Island where the Marines put up a heroic fight against Japanese and inflicted heavy casualties on them; Verdun and especially Fort Douaumont with its many undergound galleries and still intact guns in armored cupolas (nearly a millions casualties with an Ossuary contained the bones of fallen French soldiers); Bastogne and the grave of General Patton in the Luxembourg American Cemetery; Guadalcanal where I visited various battlefields (Henderson Field, the Tenaru, Edson's Ridge, Matanikaw) in our first offensive campaign against the Japanese (I dove on a sunken B-17 and two beached Japanese transports from the Japanese November offensive and near a local school I saw either a P-39 or P-400 Airacobra); Gallipoli which showed the futility of the British and ANZAC troops trying to take entrenched and well- defended Turkish positions that occupied the high ground (too many blunders); and finally Okinawa where I explored many battle sights such as Shuri Castle, Kakazu Ridge, Sugar Loaf, and others (I also participated in a joint American-Japanese war dead search (Japanese) on southern Okinawa. One of the AF ladies from Kadena found some Japanese finger bones while digging on a hillside. I was helping her excavate them and discovered that they were curled around a live Japanese Type 97 fragmentation grenade.)

Response by SP5 David Barber made Jun 10 at 2017 9:44 AM

SP5 David Barber — Sat, 10 Jun 2017 09:44:29 -0400

Omaha Beach and particularly the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur- Mer

Response by SFC John Bard c.f. made Jun 11 at 2017 8:45 PM

SFC John Bard c.f. — Sun, 11 Jun 2017 20:45:57 -0400

Bastogne, Belgium . We were on a trip from Southern Bavaria to Brussels with the VFW. We stopped and laid a wreath at their Tomb of the Unknowns, then had a champagne Brunch at the Lord Mayor's Office then to the "Nuts" Museum.

Response by LT Richard Mondak made Jun 12 at 2017 11:18 AM

LT Richard Mondak — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 11:18:40 -0400

Gettysburg and other American Civil War battlefield sites. When you consider the sheer number of deaths in a short period of time, it just enforces the fact that we who serve(d) in the Uniformed Services "Prepare for War, but Pray for Peace".
Overseas, seeing the Normandy coastline from the deck of a ship and having been a Navy Corpsman accompanying a Marine Honor Guard at Anzio was awe-inspiring as well.

Response by COL Dale Dahlke made Jun 14 at 2017 11:39 AM

COL Dale Dahlke — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 11:39:50 -0400

Viet Nam Wall in DC

Response by SN Greg Wright made Jun 15 at 2017 6:25 PM

SN Greg Wright — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 18:25:09 -0400

USS Arizona, hands down.

Response by SFC Charles Temm made Jun 16 at 2017 6:25 PM

SFC Charles Temm — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 18:25:53 -0400

Andersonville NP. I'd read of places that seemed so quiet they were abandoned and at times, the stockade area is like that. At night (I do CivWar living history & have slept there as a POW), the place is ghostly.

Others that I was fortunate to visit. Ft Toulloise, Spanish Fort, Vicksburg, Gettysburg, Shiloh, Ft Sumter, Ft Moultrie, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Wilson's Creek, Ft Pulaski, Ft Clinch, Corinth, Harpers Ferry, Stones River, Chickamauga, Chattanoga, Resaca, Pickets Mill, Kennesaw, Bentonville, Tinian, Yorktown, Cowpens, Kings Mountain, Pearl Harbor, and Bunker Hill

Response by CPT John David Sackett made Jun 19 at 2017 11:57 PM

CPT John David Sackett — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 23:57:13 -0400

Point du Hoc

Response by CPT Dick Dickens made Jun 20 at 2017 8:37 AM

CPT Dick Dickens — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 08:37:35 -0400

I agree. Gettysburg is a very humbling experience. I personally have a half a dozen family members, relatives, who fought there on the confederate side. Some who did not survive the battle. Kind of makes it personal to me.

Response by SPC Tito Castillo made Jun 22 at 2017 4:08 AM

SPC Tito Castillo — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 04:08:20 -0400

Punchbowl National Cemetery, Honolulu, Hawaii. Amazing to walk the grounds and realize that every single veteran interred there gave their life in service to their country. For those of us who served, this is a breath taking, deep down grabbing place.

Response by MSgt Jim Bain made Jun 23 at 2017 11:55 AM

MSgt Jim Bain — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 11:55:04 -0400

I live near Nancy KY where the Civil war battle of Mill Springs took place. There is a beautiful military cemetery, as well as a museum there. Just to walk among the veterans headstones on a quiet day, it makes you realize, and think of what an awful experience war is. You can almost feel their presence!
More Americans died in our Civil War than any other, today war is part of our life, a tragic part, my only hope is my grandchildren may see at least a short time out before the next one!

Response by Sgt William Straub Jr. made Jun 23 at 2017 3:31 PM

Sgt William Straub Jr. — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 15:31:43 -0400

Pearl Harbor. I went to the USS Arizona Monument. Even though I wasn't around at the time the attack occurred, my family's Naval Roots brought an unexpected well of emotions. Particularly when you notice the oil that till leaks from the ship. And when you contemplate what happened and the fact that the crew is still on board, it's emotionally gripping.

Response by SGT Mark Halmrast made Jun 27 at 2017 10:56 AM

SGT Mark Halmrast — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 10:56:53 -0400

Normandy, especially Omaha, Pont du Hoc and Ste Mere Eglise. Gettysburg, especially Little Round Top and site where First Minnesota held the line (85% casualties).
We Americans have a very rich legacy, evidenced by the number of sites mentioned.
Makes me feel proud and humble at the same time.
Thanks for serving, all.

Response by TSgt Barbara Crooks made Jun 28 at 2017 11:15 AM

TSgt Barbara Crooks — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 11:15:52 -0400

I think the most memorable for me was Pearl Harbor

Response by SSG Keith Amacher made Jun 30 at 2017 9:17 AM

SSG Keith Amacher — Fri, 30 Jun 2017 09:17:51 -0400

The Fulda Gap in Germany when it was still East and West Germany during the Cold War inside the 1K zone or "No Man's Land"

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Jun 30 at 2017 10:18 AM

Sgt Wayne Wood — Fri, 30 Jun 2017 10:18:50 -0400

Arlington

Response by PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM made Jun 30 at 2017 10:54 AM

PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM — Fri, 30 Jun 2017 10:54:16 -0400

I have seen so many. Pearl Harbor standing over the USS Arizona, Diving into Truk Harbor seeing the different Japanese Ships Navy Aircraft sunk, standing on Utah Beach knowing that my Uncle on June 6, 1944 was on a Mine Sweeper off that very coast as part of Operation Neptune. then stood at the Florence-American Cemetery & Memorial in Italy. as well as others but none have moved me as much and still do as when I walked the battlefield of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Knowing that it was American fighting American, Brother killing Brother. Seeing how massive a place it is, standing where Pickett's Charge started, standing on the promontory where General Meade stood and watched and commanded most of the conflict. Kneeling at the Soldiers Monument and crying and praying that our Republic will never be divided again. hearing the various stories being told by the Rangers about the various skirmishes and conditions. Then walking over to Cemetery Hill where Lincoln gave his address and reading the words aloud. What historic military site was most memorable? Gettysburg!

Response by SSgt Ivan Weaver made Jul 2 at 2017 10:15 AM

SSgt Ivan Weaver — Sun, 02 Jul 2017 10:15:42 -0400

I just visited Ft. Robinson in NW Nebraska. It was established during the Indian wars and has a very rich history. It is the Fort were Chief Crazy Horse was killed, the Fort were most Calvary Horses were broke and trained prior to being sent to their rider, a German POW camp in WWII, a training school for WWII K-9s. Since its closer it was operated by the FDA for beef feed studies and is now operated by the Nebraska State Park system. We love visiting there.

Response by HN Brett Kibbey made Jul 5 at 2017 12:50 PM

HN Brett Kibbey — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 12:50:10 -0400

Mt. Suribachi on Iwo Shima with my Marines.

Response by TSgt George Rodriguez made Jul 5 at 2017 7:04 PM

TSgt George Rodriguez — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 19:04:34 -0400

While stationed in Germany back in the mid 60's driving up the east side of the Rhine River from Wiesbaden going north to Ruedishiem (where the German wine flows all year long), observing the bullet holes that peppered the stone walls lining the road, showing the results of the allied forces advance across the Rhine. Living in barracks that once belonged to the Whermacht with underground tunnels used when air aids occured. Working in a compound along the Rhine across from Mainz, unsure what the status was of the compound in Shierstein But it has a high wall around the compound and many tunnels underneath for use of air raids. Served our needs quite well.

Response by MSG John Bales made Jul 5 at 2017 7:55 PM

MSG John Bales — Wed, 05 Jul 2017 19:55:06 -0400

Has to be Arlington National Cemetery Tomb of the Unknowns.

Response by SCPO Stephen Ibanez made Jul 9 at 2017 8:43 AM

SCPO Stephen Ibanez — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 08:43:09 -0400

Arizona Memorial and Yorktown battlefield were my top spots.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2017 9:59 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 21:59:53 -0400

Andersonville National POW Memorial & Museum in Georgia. Took a staff ride there while in the last phase of WOCS and it was an amazing experience.

https://www.nps.gov/ande/planyourvisit/natl_pow_museum.htm

National Prisoner of War Museum - Andersonville National Historic Site (U.S. National Park...

National Prisoner of War Museum

Response by MSG Robert Alphonse made Jul 11 at 2017 8:43 AM

MSG Robert Alphonse — Tue, 11 Jul 2017 08:43:22 -0400

As the son and nephew of WWII former POWs, I would say Andersonville, Ga., home of the National POW Memorial.

Response by CWO3 Bill Carter made Jul 13 at 2017 6:35 PM

CWO3 Bill Carter — Thu, 13 Jul 2017 18:35:58 -0400

Many years ago I visited a small church not far from the Yorktown battlefield. There I found graves of men who died in the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812 and the War between the States. It was a humbling experience to think of the American blood spilled in that area of Virginia over the first century of our nation!

Response by SSG Paul Carrier made Jul 14 at 2017 12:19 PM

SSG Paul Carrier — Fri, 14 Jul 2017 12:19:39 -0400

Gettysburg. specifically Little Round Top

Response by SGT Michael Wayne Locke made Jul 15 at 2017 1:37 AM

SGT Michael Wayne Locke — Sat, 15 Jul 2017 01:37:12 -0400

After traveling around the world, I would have to Berlin was my favorite for a couple of reasons. First, i was stationed there after the wall coming down. Second, going to Templehof and exploring all the other prominent building in the city. Last, being able to go to Berlin Mittel, (former east Berlin) and Potsdam and seeing freedom bridge.

Response by LTC Ronald Stephens made Jul 16 at 2017 3:10 PM

LTC Ronald Stephens — Sun, 16 Jul 2017 15:10:09 -0400

Don't know if The Wall qualifies as an historic military sight but there are some names on it I'll never forget. Otherwise call it a tossup between the Battleship Arizona memorial and the Punchbowl, The National Cemetery of the Pacific.

Response by SPC Steve Willis, PhD made Jul 17 at 2017 3:18 PM

SPC Steve Willis, PhD — Mon, 17 Jul 2017 15:18:07 -0400

Gettysburg, without a doubt, especially where Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain and the 20th Maine held Little Round Top, earning Chamberlain the MOH. The account of this in PBS' The Civil War still brings tears to my eyes as well as the Gettysburg Address closing the episode.

Response by MSgt Thomas Mason made Jul 18 at 2017 12:42 PM

MSgt Thomas Mason — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 12:42:27 -0400

Didn't Marines get the title "Devil Dog" from the Germans at the battle of the Somme?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2017 12:49 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 12:49:26 -0400

Tons of places in Europe that the Americans liberated. It is hard to pick one.

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made Jul 18 at 2017 2:33 PM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 14:33:31 -0400

Ft Sumter - for some reason I cannot imagine, someone thought that this was the place to start the civil war

Response by SFC Michael Peterson made Jul 21 at 2017 9:37 PM

SFC Michael Peterson — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 21:37:37 -0400

The one that made my skin crawl was Andersonville. It was a Civil War POW camp in Georgia. Very eerie.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 23 at 2017 8:11 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Jul 2017 08:11:20 -0400

USS Arizona Memorial

Response by SSG Gerald King made Jul 23 at 2017 12:35 PM

SSG Gerald King — Sun, 23 Jul 2017 12:35:16 -0400

I spent a couple years attached to the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment at Merrill Barracks, the former German SS Barracks. You could see where they removed some of the SS symbols. Also, it was right next to the stadium where Hitler had his famous rally's. Found that interesting.

Response by CWO2 Bill Kerr made Jul 25 at 2017 9:43 PM

CWO2 Bill Kerr — Tue, 25 Jul 2017 21:43:33 -0400

My most memorable was Iwo Jima. The Japanese government only allowed about fifteen Marines on the island twice a year as it is considered sacred in Japan. Standing on the beach looking at the terrain you could clearly see how the Marines were caught in fire from three venues and blocked by the water behind.

Gettysburg runs a close second. Again high ground played a major part as well as grave tactical mistakes.

Response by PO1 Mike C. made Jul 27 at 2017 8:55 AM

PO1 Mike C. — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 08:55:30 -0400

Arizona memorial but Gettysburg is up there as well.

Response by PO1 Mike C. made Jul 27 at 2017 9:04 AM

PO1 Mike C. — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 09:04:00 -0400

Arizona memorial but Gettysburg battle field was equally impactful on me.

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Jul 27 at 2017 9:01 PM

SSG Mark Franzen — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 21:01:34 -0400

I live in Washington state in Coupeville wash where I was raised there is a place called FT casey it over looks water with artillery guns it is really something to see it army bunkers as well look it on goggle.
SSG MARK FRANZEN
USA VET

Response by TSgt James Potter made Jul 27 at 2017 9:18 PM

TSgt James Potter — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 21:18:15 -0400

I have been lucky enough to go around the world with the Air Force but the Viet Nam Wall has to be the most memorable for me. Have relatives and friends that fought there and the brother of a friend that died there.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2017 3:30 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 15:30:09 -0400

Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin. Served as the NCOIC for a year.

Response by SSgt GG-15 RET Jim Lint made Jul 30 at 2017 11:18 AM

SSgt GG-15 RET Jim Lint — Sun, 30 Jul 2017 11:18:33 -0400

The Korea War Museum in Yongsan-Gu, Seoul, Korea. Our Yongsan base is walking distance to it. It is fantastic and the best of all military museums around the world. While people will say the Imperial Museum in London or The St Petersberg museum in Russia but the South Korean museum is updated and clean. They take donations of old gear.... I will be going there in Oct, if you have an idea. Or something you want me to take. The do give credit to the donor of the gear.

Response by SGT Stanley Bass made Aug 1 at 2017 3:35 PM

SGT Stanley Bass — Tue, 01 Aug 2017 15:35:11 -0400

I was blessed with working with the USARC Commander when I was in Atlanta Ga. kennesaw Mountain, Vicksburg Mississippi, Look out Mountain TN, Andersonville. Gettysburg, Richmond VA Area sites. Then Arlington National Cemetery when i was stationed at pentagon.

Response by SGT Linda Burgess made Aug 2 at 2017 12:45 AM

SGT Linda Burgess — Wed, 02 Aug 2017 00:45:52 -0400

Federal Republic of Germany. Everywhere you went...history of a battle

Response by PVT John Williams made Aug 2 at 2017 12:53 PM

PVT John Williams — Wed, 02 Aug 2017 12:53:47 -0400

Gettysburg. It began on my birthday.

Response by PO3 Vince Gibson made Aug 4 at 2017 7:25 AM

PO3 Vince Gibson — Fri, 04 Aug 2017 07:25:23 -0400

Sailing into Pearl Harbor and ultimately the USS Arizona.

Response by 1stSgt Daryl Allen made Aug 6 at 2017 10:24 PM

1stSgt Daryl Allen — Sun, 06 Aug 2017 22:24:19 -0400

Vicksburg Battle Park, MS and Shiloh Battle Park, TN.

Response by PO1 Kevin Dougherty made Aug 7 at 2017 12:01 AM

PO1 Kevin Dougherty — Mon, 07 Aug 2017 00:01:25 -0400

That I have been to thus far, Gettysburgh, or maybe Valley Forge. It's very sobering to stand at either and contemplate the price paid by those who had gone before.

Response by PO1 Mike Dean made Aug 7 at 2017 10:25 AM

PO1 Mike Dean — Mon, 07 Aug 2017 10:25:18 -0400

Living within a short driving distance of all the major Civil War battlefields in Virginia affords me great opportunity to visit them with regularity by motorcycle. For those who have not followed the route of "Lee's Retreat" from Petersburg to Appomattox Courthouse, you owe it to yourself to put in on your bucket list. I could spend days in and around Gettysburg, a day's drive away. I met a retired Army SGM who was acting as the butler at the Confederate White House in Richmond. His ancestor served in that capacity during the Civil War. We talked for an hour about Gettysburg. We had a slightly differing opinion of the advantages and follies of those 3 days. I'd like to do that again sometime soon.

Response by SFC Donald York made Aug 12 at 2017 12:49 PM

SFC Donald York — Sat, 12 Aug 2017 12:49:50 -0400

Fort Riley Kansas

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2017 11:53 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 13 Aug 2017 23:53:50 -0400

Fort Niagara and Fort Ticonderoga were very awesome to a young boy and has helped to shape my love for history and the early American battles.

Response by MSG Randall Rankin made Aug 14 at 2017 7:44 AM

MSG Randall Rankin — Mon, 14 Aug 2017 07:44:54 -0400

East/West German border.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Aug 15 at 2017 4:13 AM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Tue, 15 Aug 2017 04:13:25 -0400

Atlanta, where a beautiful city was destroyed but was rebuilt into a more beautiful city. Tokyo, it has become a pearl in Japan.

Response by GySgt Craig Averill made Aug 15 at 2017 4:55 AM

GySgt Craig Averill — Tue, 15 Aug 2017 04:55:08 -0400

Gettysburg and Antietam

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2017 8:44 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Aug 2017 08:44:26 -0400

Pearl Harbor and Fredricksburg for me besides maybe Washington DC itself those are the most historic sites I have been to for military history as well as the USS Missouri and Wisconsin.

Response by CDR Bob Hillery made Aug 15 at 2017 7:14 PM

CDR Bob Hillery — Tue, 15 Aug 2017 19:14:41 -0400

Most "memorable" - like many of us, we could spend a long night defining which, what kind, and why "memorable."

But among several that stand out, would have to be the memorial at Bastogne, in Belgium.
I had business (after Navy) in Europe that coincided with my then young daughter's spring vacation - so I took her along. After finishing the business part of the trip, we took a few days to just wander and among the destinations I picked Bastonge. We walked the ground. We climbed. We gazed upon the terrain that had held so many and such thunder. And, I admit that as I stood in the center and read, aloud, the inscription that runs around those columns that I had to stop several times. I could not simply read it. I had to stop, gather myself, and continue.
Seeing any memorial is important. Walking it, feeling it, is more memorable. It was also important to tromp it all with my daughter. We need to teach history to our children, lest they repeat our, and our fathers' mistakes.

Oh - and we also saw the current intersection of that infamous road to Malmedy, featured in the movie, "Battle of the Bulge."

Response by PO3 Bill Houk made Aug 18 at 2017 12:11 PM

PO3 Bill Houk — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 12:11:17 -0400

I was at Gettysburg in 1982. It was the last weekend in March and a very cold wind was blowing that day. A friend and I went up on Little Round Top. As I stood there I swear I could hear the shouts of the Southern Soldiers as they tried an assault on the hill. It gave me goose bumps! I believe this place to be hallowed ground.

Response by CSM Michael L. Mullenix made Aug 20 at 2017 12:49 AM

CSM Michael L. Mullenix — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 00:49:59 -0400

While visiting several different sites in Vicksburg battleground I was struck by the terrain and the tactics used to take advantage of it, both from the defensive and offensive sides of the battle.

Response by SGT Jason Ellenburg made Aug 20 at 2017 11:45 AM

SGT Jason Ellenburg — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 11:45:08 -0400

For me it is a little set of ruins in Beaufort, S.C. called the Old Sheldon Church ruins. It was burned to the ground by the British during the Revolutionary War and then again by General Sherman in the Civil War. I don't even really know how to describe the area except for serene. It's unnaturally quiet and there is the smell of something old clinging to the old bricks.

Response by SSG Wayne Wood made Aug 20 at 2017 8:28 PM

SSG Wayne Wood — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 20:28:52 -0400

Though Gettysburg ranks high on my list (I hope to return one day) it has to be Normandy - St Mere Eglise where the 505th dropped in and the steeple still had a dummy representing PVT Steele got caught on the steeple and hung there during the firefight for the town to standing at the American cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mere looking down at Omaha and then to the left at Pont-du-Hoc and swallowing hard, thinking of those "kids" and what they did there.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Aug 21 at 2017 12:16 AM

LTC John Griscom — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 00:16:07 -0400

Normandy would probably be my most memorable. Being in a bunker at Pont du Hoc and imagining how the Germans felt made a vivid impression.

Response by PO2 Bob Luquer made Aug 23 at 2017 12:26 AM

PO2 Bob Luquer — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 00:26:23 -0400

Gettysburg and Arlington National then The USS Arizona.

Response by MAJ Mike Smith made Aug 24 at 2017 10:03 AM

MAJ Mike Smith — Thu, 24 Aug 2017 10:03:45 -0400

Normandy. The countryside has not changed much since 1944. The foxhole where Gen. Gavin had his CP is still there.

Response by SSG Joe Zager made Aug 24 at 2017 10:58 PM

SSG Joe Zager — Thu, 24 Aug 2017 22:58:35 -0400

Normandy

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Aug 24 at 2017 11:50 PM

SSG Dave Johnston — Thu, 24 Aug 2017 23:50:57 -0400

Arlington, Gettysburg, Lookout Mountain, but I'm wondering if the Governor of Virginia wants Arlington on that list of Civil War Monuments he wants removed from his state.

Response by MCPO Lee Oslund made Aug 27 at 2017 6:53 PM

MCPO Lee Oslund — Sun, 27 Aug 2017 18:53:49 -0400

Actually, the site that affected me the most was not in the continental U.S. or any U.S. territory. It was the Peace Park in Nagasaki, Japan. It is haunting that so many people died in just an instant. An elderly woman was weeping. It was too much.

Response by LTC Ben Chlapek made Aug 29 at 2017 11:56 AM

LTC Ben Chlapek — Tue, 29 Aug 2017 11:56:03 -0400

Little Round Top, Trophy Point & and the Main Cadet Chapel at West Point, and Arlington National Cemetary at the stones of friends, battle buddies, and brothers.

Response by Cpl J. R. Lonsway made Aug 30 at 2017 1:23 PM

Cpl J. R. Lonsway — Wed, 30 Aug 2017 13:23:08 -0400

The Sicily-Rome American cemetery outside the small town of Nettuno, Italy. 7861 Americans buried there and 3085 MIA. As I walked the mall from the reflecting pool at the entrance to the memorial in the rear, where the names of the MIA's are chiseled into the marble walls, I noticed mostly Christian crosses and the occasional Star of David. Then, to the right, was one that caught my attention and I stepped over to read it. There was no name, no serial number, no unit, only this inscription: Here Rests In Honored Glory A Comrade In Arms Known But To God. It is a humbling experience.

Response by PO3 Shawn Teeters made Aug 31 at 2017 3:16 PM

PO3 Shawn Teeters — Thu, 31 Aug 2017 15:16:38 -0400

U.S.S. Arizona memorial

Response by MSG Frederick Otero made Sep 2 at 2017 11:27 AM

MSG Frederick Otero — Sat, 02 Sep 2017 11:27:24 -0400

Gettysburg for sure, took a bucket list trip with a very dear friend. We arrived at opening and were able to get a tour guide that was excellent. We were able to get to the Union line before the mass of humanity arrived and the whole experience was humbling. A visit to Pearl Harbor is right up there with the one to Gettysburg.

Response by SSG Ray Elliott made Sep 5 at 2017 5:01 PM

SSG Ray Elliott — Tue, 05 Sep 2017 17:01:18 -0400

It's hard to say which is most memorable out of the sites I've visited. Gettysburg was my first, and if forced to pick one probably the most memorable for me, but The Arizona memorial at Pearl Harbor, and Arlington National Cemetery, as well as the Alamo are also forever engrained in my memory. Any site that makes us reflect on the sacrifices made by other veterans is memorable to me.

Response by LTC George Adams made Sep 8 at 2017 10:28 AM

LTC George Adams — Fri, 08 Sep 2017 10:28:04 -0400

Andersonville National Historic Site [Civil War POW camp]

Response by PO3 Daniel Bain made Sep 10 at 2017 7:58 AM

PO3 Daniel Bain — Sun, 10 Sep 2017 07:58:11 -0400

For me and other michiganders, it might have to be historic Fort Wayne in Detroit. In all my Army travels, I was never close to any memorials over seas. I was also in the Navy, and have been to some of the islands like Midway and Wake, passing the wrecks of WWII that still lay where they were sunk. I don't think there is more of a memorial than that of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor Hawaii, where over 1000 sailors and marines. It will show the true cost of freedom.

Response by Col Jincy Hayes made Sep 11 at 2017 10:32 AM

Col Jincy Hayes — Mon, 11 Sep 2017 10:32:22 -0400

Gettysburg really moved me. I saw the place where Pickett's Run happened. It was early morning and there was fog on the ground, it really looked surreal. It took my breath away. until Valhalla, my brothers.

Response by SFC Adam Mathers made Sep 11 at 2017 12:39 PM

SFC Adam Mathers — Mon, 11 Sep 2017 12:39:43 -0400

This country and our military have a lot of amazing history to explore but nothing beats Arlington National Cemetery for me. Having the good fortune to have my last assignment in DC and then retire here in the area, I like to visit several times every year.

Response by SGT Irv Emerson made Sep 19 at 2017 7:08 AM

SGT Irv Emerson — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 07:08:07 -0400

Hard choice, but The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a very special place for me. I was a sentinel and relief commander there for May 66 until April 68.

Response by MSG Greg Kelly made Sep 19 at 2017 7:21 AM

MSG Greg Kelly — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 07:21:44 -0400

Wow that's a great question! Like many military persons I enjoyed going to places of past wars. The Black Forest was maybe the most intense for me. It was to if you listened closely you could hear the soldiers that have march through, fought and died there from wars over the centuries.

Response by LTC Charles "Pappy" Patchin made Sep 19 at 2017 8:33 AM

LTC Charles "Pappy" Patchin — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 08:33:02 -0400

Chancellorsville, VA

Response by SGT Anna Kleinschmidt made Sep 19 at 2017 11:00 AM

SGT Anna Kleinschmidt — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 11:00:58 -0400

I had the opportunity to visit the Vietnam Memorial on Memorial Day. There were thousands of bikers that were Vietnam Vets there. After paying their respects they all went to their Bikes that were all set up in platoon formation. it was completely silent and all of the sudden the leader of each group gave the rally point signal then all of the engines started at once then the move out signal was given and they all rolled out. It was one of the most powerful moments I have ever experienced.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 21 at 2017 2:02 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 21 Sep 2017 14:02:57 -0400

So many places mean so much in different ways, especially the national cemeteries. But for me it has to be the tomb of the unknown soldier. The respect and professionalism of the Old Guard and the fact that the unknown soldier is never left alone is powerful.

Response by SSG Craig Newton made Sep 22 at 2017 7:08 PM

SSG Craig Newton — Fri, 22 Sep 2017 19:08:31 -0400

There are two. In the states it is hands down Arlington National Cemetery for obvious reasons. The WWII memorial in Bastogn, Belgium is really impressive also.

Response by SP5 Michael Motl made Sep 22 at 2017 8:34 PM

SP5 Michael Motl — Fri, 22 Sep 2017 20:34:29 -0400

My wife and I both could feel the thousands of heartbeats that were stilled at Gettysburg. I know how visitors can hear marching masses of men who were approaching their own death!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2017 12:39 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Sep 2017 12:39:02 -0400

Shiloh does it for me. Five of my GG Grandfathers fought there numerous of their brothers, uncles, fathers, and sons. I have either visited the battlefield or lived near the boundaries of the Park for over 60 years. I have spent untold hours tracing unit progress, studying the terrain and trying to imagine what leaders thought. My mother showed me a spot at Rhea Springs where the Mississippi Brigade Crossed. My GG Grandfather's brother was killed just beyond the crossing. My mother tells of her grandmother taking her to the exact spot as a child and pacing from the ford to a spot perpendicular to a large stone, then pacing off the stone and placing both their hands on the spot they recovered her uncle's body. They live a few miles from the battlefield and went to find him after the battle was over. I placed my hand there and and realized what hallowed ground was.

Also the positions near Lanzareth where Lt Lyle Bouck and his I&R Platoon of the 394th Regiment held off a German Parachute Division for nearly an entire day gives me that same sense of awe at the hallowed ground these men chose to stand on.

Response by SGT Rich Levesque made Oct 4 at 2017 10:03 AM

SGT Rich Levesque — Wed, 04 Oct 2017 10:03:39 -0400

WWI France is a tour I would love to go on. The Argonne, The Somme, and some of the other needless bloodbaths that proclaimed WWI. Gettysburg? Fabulous. But one of the most somber was Cold Harbor. The distances between the trenches was a matter of feet at some points in the line. Grant is quoted as saying something to the effect that he wished he had not ordered that attack on Confederate forces. Thousands died in that attack. It was said that you could walk from one line to the opposing line without touching the ground.

Response by PO3 Grant Skiles made Oct 7 at 2017 7:35 AM

PO3 Grant Skiles — Sat, 07 Oct 2017 07:35:47 -0400

I have three. Living in West Reading,PA. I naturally have visited Gettysburg and Valley Forge. I learn something new each time that I visit. My final spot is at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This man could have been any one of us.

Response by SPC Gregory Godek made Oct 8 at 2017 9:05 AM

SPC Gregory Godek — Sun, 08 Oct 2017 09:05:37 -0400

I enjoy visiting Civil War sites and have been to Gettysburg 7 or 8 times, Vicksburg, Shiloh, Antietam, Stones River, Manassas, Chattanooga, Jefferson Davis Memorial, and another half dozen lesser known sites where good men fought and died. Visited the D.C. memorials numerous times. The most significant time was when I brought my stepfather, a Marine in the Pacific during WWII, to the Iwo Jima Memorial. We walked around it but when I said, "Cliff, this is dedicated to YOU TOO!", I could see a change in his face as he realized it was! I've been to South Korea, on exercise with the 1/21 Inf Bn, 25th Inf Div. (in the 70's). Sobering reality witnessing a country armed and ready to fight at any moment! With all that said, I've visited the Alamo several times. As all sites where Americans paid the ultimate price, this is "holy ground". When I contemplate roughly 200 + or -, non-military types, surrounded by a combat-tested army ten times their size....I'm completely blown away! What goes through a man's mind, facing certain death, looking out at the men gathered there to crush him?! The determination, the bravery, the love of a country not yet born, the camaraderie.......what?! I am simply awed.....

Response by SPC Bruce Grossheim made Oct 11 at 2017 2:01 PM

SPC Bruce Grossheim — Wed, 11 Oct 2017 14:01:30 -0400

I never really got to visit any. I was stationed in Nuremberg Germany from 1970 to 1973 with the U.S .Army 3rd Bn 17th Arty, a 8in self propelled M108. battalion, 12 guns. and a Hq Battery and a Service battery. I was an Artillery Surveyor, Forward Observer, like an Artillery Recon? We were there with the 2nd Armored cav. Patroled the CZecH Border.The Place was called Merrill Barracks. it was the old SS Kasserne where the German troops stayed for the Nuremberg rallies which were held just down the street which was still there, Pattons 3td Army fought the last defenders there in April of 1945 now fixed, Then it was still pot marked with bullet and shell holes still in the brick and granite building. The four floors stairwell railings painted black to cover the swastikas in the scroll work. In the Chapel there was a marbel floor covered with a carpet. On cleaning detail we moved some pews and rolled the carpet back. Inlaid in the marbel floor was a swastika. That was Hitlers Office when he was in town. The trolley only goes under ground there in the whole city, Hitler didn't like the noise. While walking about six blocks down the street to go Down town I found a spent .50 cal round laying by the curb. It layed there 26 years before I picked it up. Still got it. Many walls had filled in spots where you could see where a shot string had hit the wall. Also found many concrete bunkers in the woods, In Grafenwohr which was a German Army training grounds we practiced there also with Artillery. and with the West German Army. There were many bunkers and oberservation towers left from the war. The German people were very friendly especially when you got away from the big cities near big U.S.military Bases were. too many bad apples screwed it up. Id go back if I could. But Most has changed. Love to go to Gettysburg, Lexington and Concord...Thanks

Response by PO3 Bob Hess made Oct 13 at 2017 12:20 AM

PO3 Bob Hess — Fri, 13 Oct 2017 00:20:51 -0400

It isn't really a "military" site, but as a historic battlefield the Alamo is a somber place. It reminds us of the sacrifices men have made for freedom throughout our history.

Response by Sgt Russell Orndorf made Oct 13 at 2017 5:37 PM

Sgt Russell Orndorf — Fri, 13 Oct 2017 17:37:46 -0400

For me would have to be Antietam,is hard to explain but it was like it was familiar to me at one site talking to a park ranger I made the comment that there should be a line of tree's down a road and was told there was at one time but had died and had to be removed

Response by CSM William Payne made Oct 15 at 2017 5:37 PM

CSM William Payne — Sun, 15 Oct 2017 17:37:11 -0400

The Bloody Cornfield at Antietam for the shear carnage of humanity, close to 6000 casualties in close quarter combat in less than four hours.

Appomattox for the overwhelming impact the results had on the future of our nation.

Response by PO2 Mark Willcoxon made Oct 15 at 2017 7:50 PM

PO2 Mark Willcoxon — Sun, 15 Oct 2017 19:50:45 -0400

My first and immediate response was USS Arizona. Then, I read another response and was reminded how I felt when I visited Gettysburg.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Oct 18 at 2017 11:35 AM

PO3 Steven Sherrill — Wed, 18 Oct 2017 11:35:13 -0400

SFC Private RallyPoint Member Pearl Harbor is the most memorable of the places I have visited. I grew up on the Island of Kwajalein, which was itself a WWII battlefield, so it was not uncommon to find unexploded ordinance around. Additionally we had the Prinz Eugen which was a German Cruiser that was part of the Bikini Tests that was in the Atoll. On Roi Namur there was the remains of a Japanese underground hospital that was an eerie place. In the U.S. Mainland, going to the Custer Battlefield was memorable. I had a wyrd feeling the whole time I was there like being stared at.

Response by 1stSgt Nelson Kerr made Oct 18 at 2017 11:42 AM

1stSgt Nelson Kerr — Wed, 18 Oct 2017 11:42:46 -0400

Hill 180 in Korea, the site of the last major Bayonet Charge by the US Army, Damn is that thing steep!

Response by COL John McClellan made Oct 18 at 2017 1:08 PM

COL John McClellan — Wed, 18 Oct 2017 13:08:37 -0400

The American Military cemetaries at Normandy, and in Luxembourg - where LTG George S. Patton is buried...

Response by SPC Diana D. made Oct 18 at 2017 4:18 PM

SPC Diana D. — Wed, 18 Oct 2017 16:18:34 -0400

We had the opportunity to tour West Point when our son was in the Marine Corp and he was stationed nearby. It has to be one of the most beautiful places on this earth!!! So much history in one place and the cemetery that is at West Point is one that you really have to see.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2017 5:18 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Oct 2017 17:18:04 -0400

Already posted one but I would add anywhere along the Korean DMZ, especially between Munsan and the Chorwon Hilton.

Response by SSG Michael Eastes made Oct 18 at 2017 7:36 PM

SSG Michael Eastes — Wed, 18 Oct 2017 19:36:43 -0400

Sharpsburg, MD, especially the portion of the field near the Dunker church, where Hood's Brigade, with four depleted, exhausted, and hungry regiments stopped the Union I Corps attack, and threw them back behind their line of departure. Burnside's Bridge and the sunken road, on the same field, for similar reasons.

Waterloo, where Bonaparte's career was finally ended.

The Ardennes Forest. My dad was on the northern flank of the Bulge in '44.

The fields of Franklin, TN, where the Army of Tennessee lost 12 generals (6 killed) and half of their regimental commanders in an afternoon and evening of suicidal attacks ordered by a commanding general who had no business still leading troops.

Not a battlefield, but Dachau, where you could still feel the presence of the dead at least as late as 1978. We could only bear to go once. My dad had been there when it was fresh.

Perryville, Shiloh, Murfreesboro, Spring Hill, Gettysburg, Glorietta Pass, Corinth, MS, Fort Donelson, Pea Ridge, Wilson's Creek, Nashville, Picacho Pass, and the entire route and battlefields of the Red River campaign of 1864. Most of these were seen as a reenactor.

Fort Caspar, WY, the site of the Wagon Box Fight, and Little Bighorn.

Lexington, Concord, Yorktown, and Valley Forge.

The Alamo and San Jacinto.

Berlin, Augsburg, Nuremberg, Vienna, and any number of small villages and back roads in Germany, Belgium, and Austria, which were probably fought through in 44-45.

Okinawa and Iwo Jima.

Response by 1LT Tom Wilson made Oct 18 at 2017 11:45 PM

1LT Tom Wilson — Wed, 18 Oct 2017 23:45:34 -0400

I like this question. This is a good way to connect between those on the clock and those who been there. done that. but it's been a while.

Much of warfare is eternal. Same mud, same blood. I was on a staff ride with an ROTC class at Gettysburg, It was conducted by the retired Colonel who literally wrote the Field Manual on the current LandSeaAir doctrine that informed Tommy Franks' brilliant campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq. This is a legacy of the Starship Troopers era of the Army Secretariate of the Chief of Staff. His name was Paul something, someone my dad knew and he invited me to accompany his presentation.

It was wonderful. I was at Malvern Hill on my way back to DC after Thanksgiving at Ft. Monroe. I was sitting in the bleachers oriented to the Union gunner's perspective on the grey uniforms coming up the hill into the flame and grape shot. In Vietnam, we called them "Flechette Rounds" for 105 tubes when the little people were in the wire and needed attention. I was sitting there, sort of running these memories like savoring a fine wine and this guy who looked a company grade infantry officer of either the GI or Jarhead tribes on the Peninsual who had what looked like a bleacher pitch he was rehearsing for a presentation that week. So I asked if he wanted to throw his pitch at me.

From where I sat, I could see past his billboards to where Lee sat on Traveler, watching the progress of the three assualts he threw against those guns. And they went up, jumping over the bits and pieces of the wave that went before. Baldy Smith had strung trip wire down in the hollow you have to cross to start up into the muzzels spitting great gouts of flame licking out of a cloud of smoke. And what had been a running start had turned into a mosh pit the gunners just kept firing at. Over the heads of the Union infantry dug in the forward slope.

And Lee sat there on Traveler and watched. It was a sight which haunted the Army of the Potomac like Banquo's ghost until the Petersburg breakout and he became a Will'O the Wisp until they ran him to ground at Appomattox. But it still a long march a head of them at Marlvern Hill but they would keep the faith and make it. You can channel Lee's Will To Wind at Malvern Hill.

Go see for yourself. As Henry IV challenges "Who hath trod the ground?"

Response by Sgt Timothy Kinney made Oct 21 at 2017 8:22 AM

Sgt Timothy Kinney — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 08:22:07 -0400

West Point, Marine Sgt
. stationed at Stewart, NY. working at VMGR-452 as aircraft electrician. West Point is full of history and tradition. They said Gen. Patton was a five year student there, his excuse was he could not find the library. It was often joked that the statue was positioned facing the library with binoculars in the officer's hands so that he might find the building which he neglected.

Response by PO2 Frosty Johnson made Oct 21 at 2017 11:36 PM

PO2 Frosty Johnson — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 23:36:33 -0400

The Wall in D.C. Names of friends and brothers lost make it very emotional.

Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made Oct 22 at 2017 9:00 PM

CPT Jeff Robinette — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 21:00:00 -0400

Gettysburg and Antietam for starters. But while I was Stationed in Germany I got to go to Remagen and see that was left of the Ludendorf Bridge. I was able to go and walk the ground around Bastone as well.

Response by TSgt Albert Nigh made Oct 22 at 2017 11:36 PM

TSgt Albert Nigh — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 23:36:35 -0400

I was onboard the USS Missouri when it was sent to Pearl Harbor for permanent display. It is moored next to the USS Arizona. This marks both the start of World War II and the end of the war.

Response by LTC Tim Ellis made Oct 27 at 2017 8:49 AM

LTC Tim Ellis — Fri, 27 Oct 2017 08:49:09 -0400

3 that meant the most were Gettysburg, Omaha Beach and Culloden. To stand where your ancestors fought was moving.

Response by Sgt Mike Jacobi made Oct 27 at 2017 1:52 PM

Sgt Mike Jacobi — Fri, 27 Oct 2017 13:52:58 -0400

The American military cemeteries that I have visited in Europe leave a lasting impression. Gettysburg, especially Little Round Top and the Devils Den have to be in the top 3. The Tomb of the Unknowns hits me hardest of all. I think that is because it represents those who, in all of America's Wars from Saratoga to Baghdad, put everything on the line to defend our nation and the principles on which it was founded. That small space stands for all of those whose lives were sacrificed for the United States of America.

Response by MSgt Zachary Wiederstein made Oct 28 at 2017 5:06 PM

MSgt Zachary Wiederstein — Sat, 28 Oct 2017 17:06:54 -0400

My favorite was Bastogne. Every year in December they reenact the battle of the bulge. The whole town gets into it. They have locals dressed up in US military uniforms, they have jump displays, and even bring out surviving members of Easy Co. if you ever want to feel the appreciation from a grateful nation put this experience on your list.

Response by 1SG Eric Rice made Oct 30 at 2017 4:36 AM

1SG Eric Rice — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 04:36:54 -0400

For me it has to be Iwo Jima. Walking those hallowed grounds and being able to see the challenges the Marines faced while taking the island was surreal.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 4 at 2017 3:03 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Nov 2017 15:03:56 -0400

Colleville Sue Mer in Normandy. Numbing place to visit and pay your respects

Response by SGM Raymond Ebbets made Nov 4 at 2017 11:20 PM

SGM Raymond Ebbets — Sat, 04 Nov 2017 23:20:09 -0400

I have been to many of the sites mentioned. Where I am currently is what I remember to think about. In Hue, Vietnam with my wife’s family. We spend time here every year. Since I have read the book Hue 1968, I have a new appreciation for the Marines who fought here. I ride my bicycle all over town, and those streets were scenes of fierce fighting. Now the Vietnamese get to exercise some of those freedoms we fought for, which they may not realize.

Response by PO1 Everette Roseberry made Nov 6 at 2017 7:46 PM

PO1 Everette Roseberry — Mon, 06 Nov 2017 19:46:44 -0500

The Arizona for me, someday will visit Gettysburg lost family members there

Response by CDR John Vanore made Nov 7 at 2017 12:15 PM

CDR John Vanore — Tue, 07 Nov 2017 12:15:21 -0500

Ypres. Four battles fought there, the monuments and rosters of the dead are sobering. Then go to the cemetery and look at the headstones which cover the graves of an unnamed private from a particular regiment, or perhaps the remains of eight unidentified soldiers. Incredibly moving.

Response by CSM Bruce Trego made Nov 7 at 2017 1:36 PM

CSM Bruce Trego — Tue, 07 Nov 2017 13:36:31 -0500

Gettysburg is high on the list as is Arlington Cemetery and the Punchbowl in Hawaii! Bull Run battlefield is also memorable!

Response by PVT Todd Holjeson made Nov 15 at 2017 8:26 PM

PVT Todd Holjeson — Wed, 15 Nov 2017 20:26:27 -0500

Captain Jack's Stronghold; yet, Custer's broken arrow gets all the infamy? Not cool, if you ask me. What 70 accomplished against vastly superior forces deserves tactical-prowess recognition; just making an observation.

Response by SPC Daniel Rankin made Nov 15 at 2017 10:35 PM

SPC Daniel Rankin — Wed, 15 Nov 2017 22:35:38 -0500

I had two sites that I enjoyed, One was the site where the signed the peace talks of the Korean War and the other one was the site of the Custer's last stand. The way those markers stretched out forever was an awesome site.

Response by SFC Jim Dorsey made Nov 16 at 2017 5:32 PM

SFC Jim Dorsey — Thu, 16 Nov 2017 17:32:13 -0500

This is a no brainer for me... Point du Hoc, Normandy. My wife and I were on a mini vacation,drove across France and wound up at the beaches of the D-Day invasion 1 year after President Reagan dedicated the monument to the Rangers that scaled the cliffs at Pont du Hoc. I stood in awe on the beach looking up at the heights trying to fathom the sheer terror of our invasion of June 6, 1944. It truly inspired me to new levels of respect for our “Greatest Generation”.
Additionally we visited the military cemetery overlooking the English Channel. It was eerily quiet. And was one of my most memorable experiences of my entire Army career. Words cannot express the surge of pride I have for our Warriors of the past, present, and future!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2017 1:25 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 19 Nov 2017 13:25:05 -0500

Although I have been to a lot of sites, I was affected most by Dachau concentration camp.

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Nov 19 at 2017 2:12 PM

SMSgt Thor Merich — Sun, 19 Nov 2017 14:12:57 -0500

USS Arizona

Response by SSG Stephan Pendarvis made Nov 19 at 2017 3:40 PM

SSG Stephan Pendarvis — Sun, 19 Nov 2017 15:40:54 -0500

Inchon Landing in South Korea

Response by SSG Richard Loney made Nov 19 at 2017 5:05 PM

SSG Richard Loney — Sun, 19 Nov 2017 17:05:42 -0500

Mine was Andersonville Prison Camp.

Response by Sgt Michael Sayles made Nov 21 at 2017 3:42 PM

Sgt Michael Sayles — Tue, 21 Nov 2017 15:42:31 -0500

Gettysburg, Fredricksburg , The cemetery in Holland containing the graves of British and Polish Airborne troops who fought to capture the bridge at Arnhem. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Response by James Dickey made Nov 22 at 2017 11:05 AM

James Dickey — Wed, 22 Nov 2017 11:05:52 -0500

Little BigHorn... I am a huge fan of knowing ones own history, and this battlefield has an immense inner meaning to me for my Comanche roots, knowing that we could fight against tyrannical madman such as Custer and succeed is very important, it is also important to remember ALL of the men who died there, and the atrocities committed by the participants of the battle

Response by Sgt Larry Uelk made Nov 22 at 2017 2:04 PM

Sgt Larry Uelk — Wed, 22 Nov 2017 14:04:52 -0500

Iwo Jima in DC and Punch Bowl in Hawaii.

Response by SGT Dick Johnson made Nov 22 at 2017 11:38 PM

SGT Dick Johnson — Wed, 22 Nov 2017 23:38:04 -0500

National Infantry Museum, Ft. Benning, GA. Impressive.

Response by MGySgt Polly Weidenkopf made Nov 25 at 2017 10:10 PM

MGySgt Polly Weidenkopf — Sat, 25 Nov 2017 22:10:54 -0500

By far, accompanying 100 Iwo Jima survivors back to the island and standing on Mount Suribachi.

Response by CWO4 Tom Curran made Nov 29 at 2017 8:27 PM

CWO4 Tom Curran — Wed, 29 Nov 2017 20:27:16 -0500

Three places. Standing on the knoll of the Last stand at Little Big Horn Battlefield Monument, paying my respects at the USS Arizona Memorial and walking the decks of the USS Iowa BB-61 a floating museum in San Pedro, CA. My dad serv d aboard The Iowa in WWII and to be able to walk the same decks was very moving.

Response by Capt David Morgan made Dec 1 at 2017 12:14 AM

Capt David Morgan — Fri, 01 Dec 2017 00:14:01 -0500

The Arizona Memorial and Hickam AFB's building still showing bullet strikes from 7 Dec 1941. Spent nine years in USAF - 8 years in Air Defense preventing another Pearl Harbor.

Response by Lt Col Bill Fletcher made Dec 2 at 2017 9:09 AM

Lt Col Bill Fletcher — Sat, 02 Dec 2017 09:09:39 -0500

Antietam. A pocket sized battlefield compared to Gettysburg or Chickamauga but the place that hosted the most American casualties in a single day. In the middle of nowhere Maryland it is a very solemn site.

Response by Cpl Rebecca Nicholson made Dec 9 at 2017 12:35 AM

Cpl Rebecca Nicholson — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 00:35:57 -0500

Gettysburg! Very humbling.

Response by LTC Raymond Sienkiewicz made Dec 9 at 2017 10:46 AM

LTC Raymond Sienkiewicz — Sat, 09 Dec 2017 10:46:34 -0500

Years ago, while on TDY at the Waterways Experimentation Station in Vicksburg, MS, I spent some down time visiting the Vicksburg National Military Park. I was walking around looking at the signs indicating e.g., that such-and-such Union battalion reached a point halfway up the side of a particular fortified embankment. I wondered how a whole battalion got stopped just a few feet from making it over the top, so I started scurrying up the embankment. As I popped my head up at the top I found myself staring into the mouth of a *very* large cannon!!

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Dec 10 at 2017 8:56 AM

SSG Dave Johnston — Sun, 10 Dec 2017 08:56:47 -0500

Nekoma, North Dakota; Big Sandy Creek, Colorado, Ludlow, Colorado. One cold war site and two abuses of authority by a State's Militia.

Response by LT John Stevens made Dec 10 at 2017 4:34 PM

LT John Stevens — Sun, 10 Dec 2017 16:34:43 -0500

I think to me, the most moving sites are the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, the Vietnam Memorial in DC, and the USS Arizona Memorial in Hawaii. Next to those two, I would be hard-pressed to say which have been most memorable to me as I have visited many throughout the US, with one exception.

I was taking a tour of the island of Peleliu, a major battle site during the Caroline Island campaign during WW-II, when I accidentally stumbled on a monument sitting on a hill. I was shocked when I read the monument, which was dedicated to Corporal Louis K. Bausell, Medal of Honor recipient who had given his life at that site -- the ship on which I served while in the US Navy had been named in his honor.

Response by SSG Ron Tamoschat made Dec 10 at 2017 10:35 PM

SSG Ron Tamoschat — Sun, 10 Dec 2017 22:35:24 -0500

Gettysburg , without a doubt. There is a presence that I and others have felt , especially when walking across Cemetery Ridge at Dusk.

Response by CPO John Williams made Dec 18 at 2017 6:53 PM

CPO John Williams — Mon, 18 Dec 2017 18:53:06 -0500

USS Constitution. Enola Gay

Response by SN James MacKay made Dec 18 at 2017 7:19 PM

SN James MacKay — Mon, 18 Dec 2017 19:19:50 -0500

The D-Day Beaches and the U S Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, France. To stand in the surf and atop the bluffs there, one really appreciates what the allied troops faced. And the Cemetery, there, is moving beyond words. Number two would be Gettysburg. Spending the day there, going from one end of the line to the other, really brings to life the trials of the soldiers on both sides. Standing on the Union side, looking across the vast expanse of open land that Pickett's men had to cross, brought home the chilling desperation of that event. It's almost impossible to comprehend the magnitude of the slaughter that took place there.

Response by SPC Andrew Ross made Dec 18 at 2017 8:10 PM

SPC Andrew Ross — Mon, 18 Dec 2017 20:10:37 -0500

Arlington National Cemetery has been most memorable for me.
The Wall has been the second most so.

Response by SPC Kernie Camien made Dec 19 at 2017 3:05 AM

SPC Kernie Camien — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 03:05:59 -0500

The tomb of the unknown soldier. Changing of the guard. If this doesn’t teach you respect for your brothers nothing will.

Response by LT John Stevens made Dec 19 at 2017 11:13 AM

LT John Stevens — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 11:13:17 -0500

I already commented but felt a strong need to say something else. Reading the comments here, I am intensely proud to have served our nation with men and women like these. These are Americans who know and appreciate the great history of our nation and those who have served it, far too many giving up their limbs and their lives. These are Americans who understand service and sacrifice, and yet, are willing to take up arms at any time if called. I am thankful for all who took the oath to "...support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic..."

To this day, I take that oath to my heart and I render honor to all of those who came before me or since who hold that oath next to their heart, whether on active duty or no longer actively serving. Every battlefield on which we fought, throughout the world, is a place to revere; a place to honor those who fought and died. Some are more moving than others, for their scope or personal connection; But, none is more important than any other.

God Bless you all and thank you for your service.

Response by SGT Robert Blair made Dec 21 at 2017 9:06 AM

SGT Robert Blair — Thu, 21 Dec 2017 09:06:52 -0500

The Vietnam War Memorial Wall. When it opened my Dad and I were one of the first to visit ( He is a Marine and a Vietnam Vet) he carried a notebook and a pencil and every so often he would take and rub the lead over a name in his notebook, now I was a child at the time and I didn’t understand why he had tears as he did this, years later after being in the Army and having a bond with guys so strong you remember them more then those from childhood I understood. By the way the Number was 107, that’s how many names are in that RED notebook on a shelf in his den along with other Marine and Military memorabilia.

Response by SGT Kyle Bickley made Dec 24 at 2017 8:57 AM

SGT Kyle Bickley — Sun, 24 Dec 2017 08:57:45 -0500

Utah beach, unreal what those guys went threw. You can still feel them when your there

Response by 1LT Peter Duston made Dec 25 at 2017 4:15 PM

1LT Peter Duston — Mon, 25 Dec 2017 16:15:07 -0500

While Gettysburg, Joshua Chamberlain and the charge of the 20th Maine when they were out of ammo is a favorite, the most serious for me was the US Army Garrison at the Dachau Concentration Camp. My wife and I were performing on stage in the NCO club that had been the SS Guards Club. The ghosts were overwhelming and our infant daughter was sleeping in a costume trunk in the wings. We realized that Jewish and other prisoners entertained the SS to stay alive.. it was pretty overwhelming and the feeling stayed with when we bused back to McGraw Kaserne after the show. I was glad to hear later that the Army moved out of Dachau and it was established as the Holocaust Memorial that it needed to be.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 25 at 2017 4:27 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Dec 2017 16:27:24 -0500

Two battlefields were memorable for me...Antietam and Gettysburg. So many men lost or injured.

Response by LTC Eric Udouj made Dec 28 at 2017 9:08 AM

LTC Eric Udouj — Thu, 28 Dec 2017 09:08:14 -0500

One of my favorites has been the Battle of Novara in Italy - a great disaster for the Piedmont-Sardinian forces and an end to the 1848 War with Austria. It is both hidden because of the defeat - and view-able because some historians did a great job in placing the key battle markers .

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Dec 30 at 2017 4:04 AM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Sat, 30 Dec 2017 04:04:35 -0500

My favorite site was Trinity, where the first Atom bomb was tested. It sounds bizzare, but it ,akes you feel small knowing all the work that went into making the Manhattan Project a reality. So many people working in absolute secretcy, billions of dollars spent doing so, and today the peacefulness of the place where mans greatest power was unleashed. It's a once a year tour for almost 50 people.

Response by SPC Ramon Urias made Dec 31 at 2017 7:15 PM

SPC Ramon Urias — Sun, 31 Dec 2017 19:15:43 -0500

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Response by LTC Robin Gronovius made Jan 1 at 2018 10:39 AM

LTC Robin Gronovius — Mon, 01 Jan 2018 10:39:19 -0500

Omaha Beach, that hill was a killer to climb using the paved trail; can't imagine fighting up it under withering fire. The cemetery overlooking the beach is sobering to think of the amount of men who died during the campaign.

Response by PO2 Louis Fattrusso made Jan 3 at 2018 2:34 PM

PO2 Louis Fattrusso — Wed, 03 Jan 2018 14:34:56 -0500

Arlington National Cemetery. Located on Robert E. Lee’s property it’s a literal walk through a who’s who of American military history.

Response by COL Dave Sims made Jan 7 at 2018 8:10 AM

COL Dave Sims — Sun, 07 Jan 2018 08:10:56 -0500

Been to many of our Civil War sites and walked the battlefields. But my favorite place is Point du Hoc where the Rangers scaled the cliffs. To stand on the beach and look up is take your breathe away...and still they climbed under fire.

Response by SGT Mike Ange made Jan 8 at 2018 2:33 AM

SGT Mike Ange — Mon, 08 Jan 2018 02:33:31 -0500

I had the honor of visiting the US cemetary at Flanders Field on the 100th anniversary of the start of WW1. It was humbling. I also walked the preserved trenches, visited the British Cemetary and the bunkers where the famous poem was written. But nothing compared to looking out on that particular garden of stones on that particular day near sunset. I was surprisingly alone there and knew that I was in the shadow of great sacrifice and service more so than at any other site I have visited.

Response by SGT James Call made Jan 9 at 2018 5:16 PM

SGT James Call — Tue, 09 Jan 2018 17:16:09 -0500

Camp Curahee, A Shau Valley, South Vietnam

Response by CPT Anton King made Jan 10 at 2018 10:41 AM

CPT Anton King — Wed, 10 Jan 2018 10:41:23 -0500

Arlington National Cemetery and the many American military cemeteries in France and other European nations.

Response by SFC Jeff Diaz made Jan 14 at 2018 4:05 PM

SFC Jeff Diaz — Sun, 14 Jan 2018 16:05:32 -0500

I cannot begin to describe the weight and awe I feel upon me when I visit the Arizona Memorial and the USS Missouri. As was described during the tour of the Mighty Mo, the two ships represent the start and the end of WWII. And no matter how.... boisterous the group may be ashore at the Arizona Memorial... there remains always a hushed reverence aboard the site.

Response by SFC Joseph Dunphy made Jan 15 at 2018 3:40 PM

SFC Joseph Dunphy — Mon, 15 Jan 2018 15:40:05 -0500

Gettysburg is a favorite, partly because of the Signal Corps side of the battle. Most impressive, though, is the role of Alonzo Cushing in the dramatic artillery battle immediately preceeding Pickett s Charge. His Medal of Honor Citation was finally approved not all that long ago, and if you read it, that alone is dramatic enough, but if you have walked the battlefield, it can not fail to impress. Some gave all.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 19 at 2018 7:31 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 19 Jan 2018 19:31:27 -0500

For me it would have to be either watching the changing of the guard or Gettysburg battle field.

Response by CMSgt Steve Wright made Jan 20 at 2018 5:40 PM

CMSgt Steve Wright — Sat, 20 Jan 2018 17:40:21 -0500

Mine would be a toss up between Iwo Jima and the beaches and towns of Normandy. Iwo Jima is surreal in that you can "feel" the battle since very little has changed. While Normandy is cleaned up, you get a deep understanding of what went on when walking the grounds of Pointe du Hoc and the American cemeteries as well as seeing Utah Beach at low tide. The towns of St Lo and St Mere Eglise are humbling as well.

Response by CMSgt Steve Wright made Jan 20 at 2018 5:44 PM

CMSgt Steve Wright — Sat, 20 Jan 2018 17:44:54 -0500

It's a toss up between Iwo Jima and Normandy(beaches and towns). Since Iwo Jima is relatively unchanged, you can "feel" the battle if there is such a feeling. While Normandy is cleaned up, you get a deeper understanding of the brutality of the invasion by standing in the artillery and bomb craters on the cliffs of Pointe du Hoc; by walking through the American Cemetery above Omaha Beach and by seeing Utah Beach at low tide.

Response by Cpl Scott McCarroll made Jan 20 at 2018 5:56 PM

Cpl Scott McCarroll — Sat, 20 Jan 2018 17:56:18 -0500

For me that's easy. I had the opportunity to go to Washington DC. One night after we had dinner we drove around and ended up at The Wall. Most didn't know I had served and were surprised when they saw the tears running down my face.

Response by SSG Thomas Harmon made Jan 22 at 2018 11:01 PM

SSG Thomas Harmon — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 23:01:11 -0500

Without a doubt, the Normandy beaches. Six months afterward, I got to revisit them in a diorama at the Eisenhower Museum in Kansas.

Response by Sgt Heriberto Salinas made Jan 25 at 2018 1:17 PM

Sgt Heriberto Salinas — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 13:17:58 -0500

It has to be the Alamo for me. It's a reminder that it's a good thing that we have plenty of Mexicans on the U.S.'s side now. I believe that if an illegal comes over and serves in the military for a minimum of 6 years, they should be allowed to become a citizen immediately.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Feb 1 at 2018 1:04 PM

MSG Floyd Williams — Thu, 01 Feb 2018 13:04:45 -0500

Berlin Headquarters, Spandau Prison and the Berlin Wall that separated the East from the West during my tour in Berlin, Germany 1974.

Response by Thomas Redican made Feb 1 at 2018 4:17 PM

Thomas Redican — Thu, 01 Feb 2018 16:17:04 -0500

The historian in me says Gettysburg/Valley Forge. (You can do both in a long weekend). These sites are the birth place of the U.S. Military. So amazing.
From a personal stand point, it starts and ends at Pearl Harbor. I exist because of that.

Response by LTC Gene Moser made Feb 3 at 2018 10:23 PM

LTC Gene Moser — Sat, 03 Feb 2018 22:23:57 -0500

I have to say I have been to Gettysburg several times. The first time I found the battery position on 3 July, 1863 of the Norfolk Light Artillery Blues, the ancestor of 1/111 FA, VaARNG, in which I served for 12 years. I was amazed to find that the NLAB lost more members, both human and equine, on 4 July during the retreat, as they were part of the rear guard,
The second memorable stop was on 3 July on my way to Fort Indiantown Gap and I stopped and went to the Stone Wall and there, by the marker for the 23rd NC Infantry was a cluster of cornflowers. No idea who left them, but I had to salute.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2018 12:49 PM

CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 12:49:23 -0500

Little Bighorn. After listening to an audiobook on the subject while driving cross country, I got to the site and was able to piece together the movements and locations of various invidents (with the Nationa Park Service map). A few things stood out to me: 1) the loss was entirely the fault of the officers (poor training of the soldiers, bad relationships between them, cowardice, a willingness to leave their colleagues and the soldiers to their fate) and 2) how ill equipped the Native Americans were on every level to deal with Europeans--I understand defending your way of life, but there was never even a chance.

Response by SGT Beth Day made Feb 4 at 2018 9:49 PM

SGT Beth Day — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 21:49:51 -0500

Technically not a battlefield, but Dachau. It was the first place I had ever been that was the site of horrendous tragedy. It's stuck with me for decades

Response by Sgt Eric Plebuch made Feb 4 at 2018 10:47 PM

Sgt Eric Plebuch — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 22:47:10 -0500

July 4th 1991, will always be a proud moment for me!

Response by SPC Sean O'Sullivan made Feb 9 at 2018 10:01 AM

SPC Sean O'Sullivan — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 10:01:10 -0500

I've been to many, but the one that I thought was the coolest would have to be Trinity site, where the first atomic bomb was tested. Got to see it when I was TDY to White Sands Missile Range in the early 90s.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2018 10:47 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 10:47:16 -0500

SFC Private RallyPoint Member for me, it was the opportunity to visit the D-Day beaches and surrounding areas.

Response by SFC Mark Klaers made Feb 16 at 2018 6:29 AM

SFC Mark Klaers — Fri, 16 Feb 2018 06:29:38 -0500

Castillo de San Marcos and Fort McHenry.

Response by Lt Col Stephen Wood made Feb 21 at 2018 7:07 PM

Lt Col Stephen Wood — Wed, 21 Feb 2018 19:07:19 -0500

In the USA...Gettysburg, Little Big Horn, Antietam...those would have to rank as the top ones. Overseas? Wake Island, Midway Island, Iwo Jima (thank you USMC for allowing me to tag along), Belleau Wood, Bastogne...yeah, I'm a history geek; I could go on and on...those are some I've been blessed to visit.

Response by SGT Jim Jones made Feb 23 at 2018 5:31 AM

SGT Jim Jones — Fri, 23 Feb 2018 05:31:25 -0500

To me, it was Omaha Beach, on the 6th of June, 1969, I stood on the bluffs overlooking Omaha Beach. I was looking at the place my father had waded ashore, 25 years before. It definitely put a lump in my throat.

Response by LTC Charles Patchin made Mar 22 at 2018 12:32 PM

LTC Charles Patchin — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 12:32:27 -0400

I have 2. The first is Andersonville National Cemetery. I had just graduated from OCS at Ft. Benning and my mom and I were on our way home for leave before I went overseas. We decided to make a stop at the former site of the Civil War prison. It was late in the afternoon so we stopped at the office for information about a relative who had died at the prison camp. The Superintendent was really nice, looked up the information and gave us directions to the grave site. He said it was close to closing and he would be doing so shortly. When we finished we were leaving and we stopped by to thank him. He was preparing to go out and lower the flag. I asked if I could assist him. He said yes and I felt quite proud that I had the honor of helping lower and fold our flag at such a historic site and honor my deceased relative.
The second was Chansellorsville, next to The Wilderness. I arrived very early in the morning. It was still not light yet and the ground fog had not dissipated . As I stood in the silence I thought I could hear the sounds of men and equipment rattling and horses making noise. I seemed as though the men were still there, waiting for the mornings battle. It was a very strange feeling.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 22 at 2018 6:53 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 18:53:55 -0400

I don’t know if you’d consider it a military site. But one of the most memorable places I’ve worked at, is the site in Los Alamos New Mexico where they built the nukes they dropped in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Response by MSG Timothy Smith made Mar 25 at 2018 6:40 PM

MSG Timothy Smith — Sun, 25 Mar 2018 18:40:33 -0400

Having been to many of the aforementioned palces, my choice, based in large part on the history major in me. would have to be the cemetary at West Point. A lot of history is to be found there.

Response by PO1 Cliff Heath made Mar 25 at 2018 9:28 PM

PO1 Cliff Heath — Sun, 25 Mar 2018 21:28:43 -0400

PEARL HARBOR & BATTLESHIP ROW.

Response by SSgt Dallas Frint made Mar 27 at 2018 2:13 PM

SSgt Dallas Frint — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 14:13:16 -0400

I would have to say the Civil war battlefields at Manassas, second battle at Manassas, Chancellorville, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania.
I had read about the civil war and these places from an early age. It was great to actually see them and stand where men actually fought and died during the civil war.

Response by MAJ Bruce Carriker made Mar 30 at 2018 8:47 AM

MAJ Bruce Carriker — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 08:47:49 -0400

Gettysburg in the US; the Ardennes in Europe.

Response by Capt Christian D. Orr made Apr 2 at 2018 3:00 AM

Capt Christian D. Orr — Mon, 02 Apr 2018 03:00:01 -0400

Arlington National Cemetery for tranquil beauty and solemn reminder of supreme sacrifice (particularly the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier), battleship USS Iowa (BB-61) for sheer cool points.

Response by Capt Tom DiMicelli made Apr 3 at 2018 12:20 PM

Capt Tom DiMicelli — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 12:20:58 -0400

The memorial at Croix-Rouge Farm, near Chateau-Thierry, make it one of the more memorable sites I have had privilege of visiting, but each have been memorable in very unique ways, and also in the same way.

Response by CPO Mark B. made Apr 3 at 2018 12:26 PM

CPO Mark B. — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 12:26:59 -0400

I think the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific located at Punchbowl Crater in Honolulu, Hawaii

Response by SSgt Russell Stevens made Apr 3 at 2018 5:33 PM

SSgt Russell Stevens — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 17:33:46 -0400

I have visited many battlefields around the world. No battlefield affected me as much as visiting the site of a concentration camp in Poland.

Response by LTJG John Poe made Apr 6 at 2018 4:55 PM

LTJG John Poe — Fri, 06 Apr 2018 16:55:31 -0400

Ponte du Hoc, Normandy, France. This held a special meaning to me, as Earl Rudder, commanding the 2nd Rangers there, was President of Texas A&M when I was a student (and in the band); Pearl Harbor; Waterloo (different trip); The Alamo, San Jacinto; Many of the Civil War, but especially Gettysburg and Appomattox; Dade Massacre

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 8 at 2018 8:14 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 08 Apr 2018 20:14:05 -0400

Despite being in the army, it has always been naval battles and ships that fascinated me the most.

The most memorable for me was the Japanese battleship Mikasa, which was Admiral Heihachiro Togo's flagship during the Russo-Japanese war of 1904-05. My father gave me a book about the history of the Japanese navy when I about 8-years-old, and the chapters on the Sino-Japanese war and Russo-Japanese war simply fascinated me. A part of that might be the fact that at roughly the same time we visited the USS Olympia at Philadelphia, PA and that vessel of the same "Pre-Dreadnaught" generation.

I've seen pictures of the Mikasa for decades, read many books on the way in general and the battle of Tsushima Straight in particular and even covered it in great detail in my Master's thesis, so when I finally got to see it in person in 2012 it was a very special experience. That day was made even more special by the museum's curator (the Mikasa is a museum now, right next to the US Navy base at Yokosuka). I don't recall his name (lost his card), but we spoke for about two hours during and after an essentially private tour. He saw the way I studied absolutely everything I saw, read each description of the battle and I guess he just recognized the reverence I felt for the place.

That guide was actually a retired Japanese navy captain who had been a young ensign at the end of World War II and had served on the Heavy Cruiser Aoba, which was scuttled at Kure. We spoke about both the Russo-Japanese war and the second world war, especially about technology and its evolution, tactics and morale.

By far, it was the best visit I've ever had to a an old military site, and I've been to many. A very close second place would be the city of Puyo in South Korea, and a cliff called Nakhwaam (낙화암) which means "Falling Flower Mountain". It was the last line of defense for Paekche as the combined T'ang Chinese and Shilla Korean forces not only conquered them, but completely annihilated them (they had it coming after a few centuries of brutal oppression and military superiority). The name comes from a Chinese soldier who was at the bottom looking up at the noble women jumping off the cliff to avoid capture. Their dresses would balloon open and looked like falling flowers. "Nak" is the same character used in Nakhasan, or parachute.

The entire area is a historian's goldmine, but I felt a very special connection with this place as the Paekche kingdom is really at the heart of the split between Japanese and Korean history, with each country having very different descriptions of the same events and even people. If you are stationed in Korea, Puyo, the last Paekche capital, is an absolute must-see.

Response by SGT Richard Moschetti made Apr 9 at 2018 2:29 PM

SGT Richard Moschetti — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 14:29:33 -0400

WEST POINT...I PATROLLED THE MOUNTAINS AROUND WEST POINT TRAINING RANGES

Response by SMSgt Roy Dowdy made Apr 10 at 2018 7:26 PM

SMSgt Roy Dowdy — Tue, 10 Apr 2018 19:26:44 -0400

I would have to say when I visited the battlefield around Khe Sanh, Vietnam in 1998. Although there are no memorials erected, it's really hard to believe that there was such a tremendous amount of death and destruction during the 66-days siege of continuous bombing and assault. That and every time I visit the Vietnam Memorial in Washington I pause and reflect how many good men were sacrificed for naught!

Response by 1SG Craig Wood made Apr 12 at 2018 1:43 PM

1SG Craig Wood — Thu, 12 Apr 2018 13:43:30 -0400

Vicksburg and Arlington National Cemetery

Response by CPL Stephen Patterson made Apr 13 at 2018 8:37 PM

CPL Stephen Patterson — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 20:37:23 -0400

Shiloh

Response by Maj Robert Thornton made Apr 15 at 2018 7:56 AM

Maj Robert Thornton — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 07:56:26 -0400

Suresnes American Cemetery outside Paris, France, Andersonville, and Gettysburg would be the ones most memorable. The other one would be the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington.

Response by PO1 Lucinda Cindy Brown Shephard made Apr 15 at 2018 12:02 PM

PO1 Lucinda Cindy Brown Shephard — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 12:02:56 -0400

The Arizona Memorial hits home. My ex was stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii and I got to visit the Memorial with my grandmother who had come over to visit. (her first time on a plane and she flies from Syracuse, NY to Hawaii!). Very moving. The other would be Gettysburg.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2018 12:48 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 12:48:54 -0400

Dachau, saw it in the late eighties while I was stationed in West Germany. The realization that the hills surrounding the buildings were not originally there, they were built one group at a time... Yeah, nazi death camps have a certain smell that you just won't get out of Gettysburg

Response by LTC Terrence Farrier, PhD made Apr 16 at 2018 6:10 PM

LTC Terrence Farrier, PhD — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 18:10:11 -0400

Although I have seen some military battlefields, including Gettysburg, my favorite and most reflective time was Antietam. I am unashamed to admit that while looking at the ditch between the fences where soldiers were not allowed to surrender, I shed a tear or two.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2018 7:07 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 19:07:01 -0400

Yorktown or Chickamauga. Also, Andersonville.

Response by PO2 Mike Forster made Apr 16 at 2018 8:16 PM

PO2 Mike Forster — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 20:16:09 -0400

The Battan Death March in the PI.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2018 10:59 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 22:59:46 -0400

Just went to Normandy last week- just so emotional.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 21 at 2018 1:32 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 21 Apr 2018 01:32:35 -0400

1) Verdun
2) Atlanta

Response by CWO2 James Mathews made Apr 27 at 2018 12:44 PM

CWO2 James Mathews — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 12:44:37 -0400

The site that I remember most, and researched extensively after my two visits were the "Arizona Memorial!" I was impressed with the ship itself, of course, however, the feeling I got while on the memorial was one of a real comradery even though I knew none of those who were on her as crew. Words cannot totally explain my feelings about these two adventures, and if I ever have the opportunity to visit the Islands again, I will make it a definite point to visit the old girl once again!

Response by SPC Alejandro Martinez made May 5 at 2018 8:23 PM

SPC Alejandro Martinez — Sat, 05 May 2018 20:23:44 -0400

The only military site I've ever been to was Auschwitz, the Nazi extermination camp in Poland. If I will ever visit any other military site, it will still not compare to the memories at Auschwitz. There will always be bullies and the weak. As long as there is breath in my lungs and blood coursing through my muscles, I will stand and fight for the helpless.

Response by MAJ Montgomery Granger made May 6 at 2018 6:11 PM

MAJ Montgomery Granger — Sun, 06 May 2018 18:11:27 -0400

Gettysburg. It's not even close. Spend a day, spend the night. Spend even a few hours and the place sucks you in. The spirits and ghosts of soldiers past are said to haunt the place. So many men, congregated on so few acres, for such violent reasons, set out to kill/defeat each other in mortal combat. Many, too many, lost their lives in more than brutal ways. The turning tide of our country's adolescents. Growing pains of maturation. Some say both sides lost, as indeed they did, in human cost. The dawn of the next few months and then years brought hope and contrition. The following decades and century brought "progress." At least we're not openly at each other's throats again. Or maybe that's what's needed, like a forest fire breeds new dwarf pines, perhaps Thomas Jefferson was right that "From time-to-time the tree of Liberty needs to be watered with the blood of patriots." Gettysburg.

Response by 1SG Randy Book made May 6 at 2018 9:12 PM

1SG Randy Book — Sun, 06 May 2018 21:12:06 -0400

The wall, several brother's names there.

Response by PO1 David Jordon made May 11 at 2018 9:14 PM

PO1 David Jordon — Fri, 11 May 2018 21:14:42 -0400

always has been, and always will be. Pearl Harbor and the U.S.S. Arizona. a lot of brothers died there. and i did my best to live up to their expectations.

Response by TSgt Larry Johnson made May 13 at 2018 12:40 PM

TSgt Larry Johnson — Sun, 13 May 2018 12:40:25 -0400

Luxembourg American Cemetery. When I was stationed in Germany, my Dad sent me the serial number and unit of my Uncle Jimmy. He was killed during the Battle of the Bulge on January 7th, 1945. Dad and Jimmy were very close. He never really talks about him much, you can still see the hurt in his eyes. When I got the information of where he was, I went to see him. I was really touched because I was the first Johnson to see him since he left for war. I got it all on VHS tape, and when I got back to the states, ran copies off for the next family reunion. I was a hero in the eyes of all my relatives, and I just felt thankful that I was able to go see James E. Johnson, 193rd Giider Infantry, 17th Airborne Division.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made May 13 at 2018 8:47 PM

MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca — Sun, 13 May 2018 20:47:14 -0400

Gettysburg

Response by MAJ John Douglas made May 15 at 2018 3:47 PM

MAJ John Douglas — Tue, 15 May 2018 15:47:38 -0400

The beaches of Normandy and the American cemetery over looking the beaches. Not a blade of grass out of place, sparkling from start to finish. I stood on the cliffs over looking the beach and just wondered how they did it. The greatest generation for sure!

Response by Jerry Rivas made May 18 at 2018 3:57 PM

Jerry Rivas — Fri, 18 May 2018 15:57:23 -0400

Gettysburg...The death and destruction of those 3 days is heart wrenching to a student of history like myself. Pickett's charge in particular showed the bravery of the Confederate soldiers. It is also a testament to the futility of war .

Response by Jerry Rivas made May 18 at 2018 3:58 PM

Jerry Rivas — Fri, 18 May 2018 15:58:47 -0400

Although not a battlefield.....Arlington National Cemetery is the most somber place I ever visited.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2018 12:57 AM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 30 May 2018 00:57:15 -0400

Yorktown VA, there is something awe-inspiring about the spot where we won our freedom.

Response by SSG Chris Cherry made Jun 6 at 2018 9:26 AM

SSG Chris Cherry — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 09:26:13 -0400

I had the opportunity to visit the Manila American Cemetery while working with JSOTF-P in the Philippines. It is every bit as stunning as Arlington. The number of unnamed graves there is a subtle reminder of how brutal the fighting was in the Pacific theater during WWII.

Response by PO1 Kevin Arnold made Jun 7 at 2018 4:05 PM

PO1 Kevin Arnold — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 16:05:21 -0400

I was stationed in Pearl Harbor, HI so the Arizona memorial would be the most memorable historic military site I have been to and seen. It has a list of names of those who died onboard and still onboard to this day.

Response by MAJ Lyle F. Padilla made Jun 9 at 2018 4:38 PM

MAJ Lyle F. Padilla — Sat, 09 Jun 2018 16:38:26 -0400

Many if not most veterans sense an aura at many battlefields, presumably because of the deaths and suffering that took place there. For me, the most memorable battlefields are the three where the auras were strongest:

GETTYSBURG: For me, the entire battlefield has that aura. Here is a Facebook photo album that I took on the 150th Anniversary of the battle, with one picture taken at the 20th Maine monument at Little Round Top, and the rest at the little-remembered East Cavalry Field where the 1st New Jersey Cavalry (now the 102nd Cavalry, New Jersey Army National Guard, my old unit) fought:
https://www.facebook.com/lyle.padilla/media_set?set=a [login to see] 0 [login to see] [login to see] 84459&type=3

The fight at Rummel Farm on what is now the East Cavalry Field is given little mention in the history books because it took place simultaneously with Pickett's Charge as a Union Cavalry rearguard action against Jeb Stuart's cavalry. Perhaps also because George Armstrong Custer and his Michigan Cavalry Brigade bore the brunt of the fighting and Custer has been declared persona non grata by politically correct revisionist historians.

ANTIETAM: The bloodiest one-day battle of the Civil War, whereas Gettysburg lasted three days. For me, the aura was the strongest at the Sunken Road, AKA Bloody Lane.

CORREGIDOR: I was born in Manila and lived there until I was almost eleven (my family got the hell out of Dodge when Ferdinand Marcos became President because they knew how corrupt he was). I visited Corregidor only once. The inside of the Malinta Tunnel, used as a hospital as well as General MacArthur's HQ, was where the aura was strongest. I was a very impressionable 7 or 8 year old at the time, so that was the first time I'd ever felt the aura and the only place other than Gettysburg and Antietam where I felt it as strongly.

Oddly enough, the entire city of Manila (including the neighborhood where my family lived) became a battlefield and was leveled in the fighting in February 1945. An estimated 100,000 to 200,000+ civilians were killed, the vast majority massacred by Japanese troops before the US troops even arrived and the fighting started, and yet growing up there I don't recall feeling the kind of aura anywhere in the city including my own neighborhood. I can only guess that the city being roughly the area and population of Philadelphia, the deaths were dispersed plus it resumed being a busy metropolis after it was rebuilt.

Lyle F. Padilla

Lyle F. Padilla is on Facebook. Join Facebook to connect with Lyle F. Padilla and others you may know. Facebook gives people the power to share and makes the world more open and connected.

Response by MSgt Zachary Wiederstein made Jun 19 at 2018 5:45 PM

MSgt Zachary Wiederstein — Tue, 19 Jun 2018 17:45:42 -0400

I really enjoyed visiting Bastogne Belgium during the holidays. Every year they do a reenactment of the battle of the bulge. Everybody dresses up in era appropriate uniforms, they drive around in WWII era vehicles, the Dutch parachute team even did a jump. The best part is they bring out the dudes from EZ Co. and treat them like the heroes they are. It made me really proud to be an American that day.

Response by LTC William Bridgeman made Jun 22 at 2018 5:35 PM

LTC William Bridgeman — Fri, 22 Jun 2018 17:35:55 -0400

Cowpens, because my ancestor MAJ Joseph McJunkin played a noteworthy part in that "Jewel of the Revolution".

Response by PO2 John Driskill made Jun 23 at 2018 11:58 AM

PO2 John Driskill — Sat, 23 Jun 2018 11:58:32 -0400

Pearl Harbor.

Response by CWO2 Bill Kerr made Jul 3 at 2018 11:22 PM

CWO2 Bill Kerr — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 23:22:24 -0400

Definitely Gertysburg. I’ve been there three times. When you stand at places like Devil’s Den, Little Round Top and where Picket’s Charge was you can clearly see the tactical mistakes and nightmare it was. Kind of Fitting also since it’s the anniversary of the battle.

Hands down was Iwo Jima. Standing on the beach you wonder how in the hell anyone made it off there. Then hiking up Mt Surabachi. As a Marine it was one of the greatest honors to be asked if I’d like to go. They only allowed a few Marines on the island per year.

Response by PO1 Daniel Ladd made Jul 6 at 2018 2:45 PM

PO1 Daniel Ladd — Fri, 06 Jul 2018 14:45:34 -0400

My favorite site is Pearl Harbor. I sailed into Pearl 5 times during the 80's and 90's on two different ships. It was always a moving and solemn event. My last duty station was Subase Pearl Harbor and my best friend had his retirement ceremony at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Center.

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made Jul 8 at 2018 10:44 AM

SFC Francisco Rosario — Sun, 08 Jul 2018 10:44:18 -0400

For me i would have to say the USS Arizona in Hawaii, and The Kehlsteinhaus (known as the "Eagle's Nest" among the Allies) in Berchtesgaden, Germany.

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made Jul 8 at 2018 10:58 AM

MSG Danny Mathers — Sun, 08 Jul 2018 10:58:01 -0400

The Vietnam Memorial Wall.

Response by SP5 Ronald R Glaeseman made Jul 8 at 2018 12:41 PM

SP5 Ronald R Glaeseman — Sun, 08 Jul 2018 12:41:21 -0400

Colleville and the cemetary at Hamm, Lux. where Patton is buried. There are so many. Each one is an emotional experience.

Response by SGT Fredrick Ramm made Aug 7 at 2018 11:50 AM

SGT Fredrick Ramm — Tue, 07 Aug 2018 11:50:03 -0400

My favorite spot, is West Point and Highland Falls New York. Not so much the center of the universe for The U.S. Army, full of history and just a beautiful spot (I think, this is leading up to a doorman joke!!) , but, any way, home to my childhood roll model T/Sergeant Martin Maher, it's not that I wanted to go to school at USMA, but I wanted to work there...doing Marty's job.

Response by SP5 Dennis Loberger made Jul 13 at 2019 1:51 AM

SP5 Dennis Loberger — Sat, 13 Jul 2019 01:51:36 -0400

Arlington and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is something that I will always remember. It causes me to reflect on all the sacrifices that have been necessary over the years to preserve this republic and the world

Response by MSG Randall Rankin made Nov 20 at 2020 7:10 AM

MSG Randall Rankin — Fri, 20 Nov 2020 07:10:03 -0500

Hands down Gettysburg. Easy to get around, well marked, and especially if you watch the movie right before or after visiting the site (was filmed on the actual sites)

Response by 1SG Brian Adams made Feb 14 at 2021 3:07 PM

1SG Brian Adams — Sun, 14 Feb 2021 15:07:26 -0500

I was stationed at Schofield Barracks back in the early 90s...the Arizona Memorial was always a solemn place for me. Back then a lot of the Pearl Harbor survivors were plentiful and I loved hearing the stories of that infamous day...!

Response by Cpl Bernard Bates made May 5 at 2021 6:07 PM

Cpl Bernard Bates — Wed, 05 May 2021 18:07:23 -0400

I was a Marine on Okinawa 61-63. The war had only been over16 yrs. I went to KaKazu where the first line Japanese defense had been I went into a cave their was cement blocks built like a small room about 6ft high with an open hole about a 14 inch square shined a light inside, There was a stack of human bones piled to the top. We also found old trench lines in the ASP#1 Ammo Dump with human bones. I saw a farmer had dug up a shoe in his field with the foot bones still in it. The shoe looked like an American combat boot. There were over a hundred thousand casualties on that island. I imagine things will be dug up for a good many years, even unexploded ordnance. A lot of caves had the entrances blown shut with the Japanese Soldiers inside. Semper Fi.