Designed by Michael West of the architectural firm of Calloway, Johnson, Moore & West in Winston-Salem, NC, the dramatic 59,000 square-foot building is highlighted by the 5,000 square-foot, five-story high open lobby area. The lobby exhibit is accented by natural light from the glass walls and surrounding high mounted windows. The lobby exhibit features two fully deployed parachutes, a WWII era T-5 round chute and a modern MC-4 square chute. The round parachute represents the origins of airborne forces, and the integration of airborne forces into conventional warfare. The square parachute represents the cutting edge of modern special operations, and the unconventional warfare they continue to engage in. Displayed together, these parachutes represent the development of airborne infiltration, and the soldiers who work in support of one another in the combined airborne and special operations community.
The command center for the museum volunteers, the Information Desk is the first stop for visitors. Behind the desk is the museum logo, designed by Tony Sims, a paratrooper
A wall in the lobby is dedicated to the 73 individuals who have received the Congressional Medal of Honor for their actions while assigned to an airborne or special operations unit. Click here to see a list of the 73 airborne and special operations Medal of Honor recipients.
Another wall in the lobby reviews the history of the establishment of airborne units and special operations units, with histories of the major units and even more comprehensive listings of units. Additional information is available at the computer kiosks in the lobby or at Roll Call Unit Histories.
There is something for everyone at the museum gift shop. From prints to posters and from detailed models to fun toys, the gift shop focuses on the Army airborne and special operations units, equipment, and history. In addition, there is a selection of special items that are uniquely North Carolina and special to Fayetteville. Our Gift Shop Catalog also available in print. Catalogs can be picked up at the museum, or requested by emailing the shop or calling (910) 643-2781 during museum hours.
We have over 4,000 artifacts pertaining to the history of the United State Army Airborne and Special Operations groups.
Access: General Public, Students, Scholars
Appointment required: True