FORT TUTHILL, Ariz.—The Fort Tuthill Museum, a museum that contains the history of the 158th Infantry Regiment, celebrated the opening of their eighth season with a flag raising ceremony here, May 5.
Cadets from Northern Arizona University raised the American flag as cadets from the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps at Coconino High School formed around and saluted to signal the beginning of the museum’s opening.
The museum also invited infantrymen from C Company, 1-158th Infantry Regiment, to display and explain some of the modern equipment they use today to museum visitors.
“We are here today to set up some weapon systems and show [their] capabilities and to try and get to know the people in the community,” said Pfc. Lino Fernandez, a mortarman in C Company.
The Museum extends its community outreach by taking part in local events to boost awareness of the Fort Tuthill Museum.
“We are participating in tours for school children and taking part in the Armed Forces Day parade,”said Jim Warbasse, the director of the Fort Tuthill Museum.
The museum itself focuses on the history of the 158th Infantry Regiment from 1865 to present day. There are four rooms with 12 exhibits that include weapons, displays, photographs and copies of original unit documents.
“Our purpose here is to help the citizens understand the history, traditions and the sacrifices made by Arizona troops and help people understand the role of the military,” said Warbasse.
Fort Tuthill Museum also gives the younger generation an opportunity to learn about Arizona troops and the sacrifices that made the state what it is now.
“Younger generations are usually surprised when they hear about the important role the military played in the growth of Arizona,” said Lon Wolff, curator of exhibits at Fort Tuthill Museum.
Children 12 and younger and all servicemen are allowed in the museum free of charge. Others will be charged $3 as an entrance fee.