Museum offers free admission to veterans

The Miracle of America Museum in Polson will honor all veterans on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, by offering them free admission to the museum, along with their spouses.

First celebrated as Armistice Day, the celebration marked the end of World War I, which came in 1918 on the “11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month.” The name was changed to Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all veterans who served in our nation’s armed forces.

While the museum has a wide and diverse collection, veterans often review the extensive military display that helps tell their own story. Of special interest at this time of year is the World War I display which showcases only a portion of the museum’s WWI collection.

A small, but very poignant display tells the story of Orvill Rangeler who served as a corporal in the U.S. Army along the Mexican border before being sent to fight in France during World War I. Sadly, he lost his life in that war shortly before it came to an end.

The display includes a letter from his mother to his siblings, along with a poem and a Certificate of Honor for his service. On Veterans Day at 11 a.m., the poem and letter will be part of a small ceremony held at the museum to honor all veterans.

The museum is located at 36094 Memory Lane in Polson and is open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children 2-12 and free for children under 2.