Honor state’s veterans by visiting museums, other sites COMMENTARY Susan Corbett

MORE THAN 1 million Pennsylvanians are military veterans, brave men and women who put their lives on the line to serve our state and country.

Veterans Day will be observed Friday, and as Pennsylvania’s first lady and ambassador for the state’s wonderful tourism experiences, I can think of no better tribute than to pay a visit to one of the many military museums around the commonwealth. These sites are educational and inspirational, and they are ideal places to learn more about the service and sacrifices of Pennsylvania veterans.

One of the most symbolic places to honor Pennsylvania veterans is at the aptly named Pennsylvania Veterans Museum in Media, where the stories of America’s conflicts are told through the eyes of veterans themselves. These firsthand accounts are meant to educate, inform and preserve the past so future generations can continue to learn from them.

Near State College, the Pennsylvania Military Museum in historic Boalsburg tells the stories of diverse state residents who served our country. A visit to this Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission site is always inspiring.

This year marks the beginning of the Civil War’s sesquicentennial celebration, and there are several places to pay tribute to soldiers who fought in that conflict. Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park and reflect on lives lost in that famous battle at its National Cemetery. Discover the stories of the blue and gray at the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg and view the struggle as a timeline, from issues straining the nation through the war’s conclusion at Appomattox Court House, Va.

One of the oldest and best-known landmarks in Pittsburgh, the majestic Soldiers and Sailors Museum, is the nation’s only memorial building dedicated to honoring the men and women of all branches of the military. It is especially thought-provoking in that its exhibits detail the effects that military conflicts have had on our society. In Carlisle, the U.S. Army Heritage & Education Center celebrates its 10th anniversary this month; the center is dedicated to educating and preserving the legacy of the men and women who have served their nation as soldiers.

To truly stand in the shoes of Pennsylvania’s veterans, I encourage you to take a few days to explore the Military History Trail, compiled by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. This trail traverses the state, encouraging visitors to stand at Washington Crossing where George Washington crossed the Delaware as he led his troops during the Revolutionary War; travel to nearby Brandywine Battlefield Park to see the quarters used by Washington and Lafayette during the biggest single-day battle of the American Revolution; and explore Valley Forge, where troops camped during a harsh winter. Heading west, discover Fort Ligonier, Bushy Run Battlefield and Fort Pitt, which largely influenced the settlement of the western part of the state; and visit the Erie Maritime Museum, homeport to the U.S. Brig Niagara, the reconstructed warship that won the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812.

These stirring museums and historical sites are only a few of the many places across our commonwealth to honor the men and women who bravely fought – and continue to fight – for our country.

I encourage you to take some time during Veterans Day, or any other time of year, to explore these sites and learn more about the extraordinary men and women who are Pennsylvania’s veterans.

Susan Corbett, first lady of Pennsylvania, formerly served as vice president for programs and development for the Gettysburg Foundation, a nonprofit partner of the National Park Service that works to preserve Gettysburg National Military Park.

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