All active-duty military personnel, veterans and their guests with them at the time of ticket purchase receive free admission to Discovery Park for the event on March 14 and 15, 2025.

(Union City, Tennessee, Feb. 28, 2025) – Discovery Park of America is hosting its annual Military Expo on Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 15, 2025. The event, sponsored by Dixie Gun Works and Union City Coca-Cola, will feature a variety of programs and interactive activities that explore the past, present and future of the American military. All active military personnel, veterans and their guests with them at the time of ticket purchase will receive free admission to Discovery Park during both days of this event.

Both days, attendees will experience military reenactments, vehicle and equipment displays and presentations by special guests. Several military vehicles, including a UH-60 Blackhawk, will be on display.

New this year is a partnership with The Tennessee Army National Guard (TNARNG). The TNARNG serves as both a state militia force under the governor’s command and a reserve component of the U.S. Army under federal authority. It plays a dual role in responding to emergencies in Tennessee and supporting national military operations.

“Educating the public is a big part of our mission, and I can think of no better event in the state more closely aligned,” said Johnathan Cadwell, senior recruiting and retention specialist. We’ll be bringing some fun activities, military vehicles and, on Saturday, members of the TNARNG to share their experience with students.”

Qualifying school groups may attend free thanks to the Kirkland Scholarship. Students from all K-12 schools with 50% of the students qualifying for free or reduced lunches qualify for scholarships that pay for *100% of the ticket price to visit Discovery Park of America. Use this form to apply.

Another of this year’s highlights is a program titled “If It Is Broke, Don’t Fix It: An Examination of U.S. Militaria Preservation and Conservation.” This special program on Saturday, led by Dr. Patrick Bishop, professor of business communications at the University of Tennessee at Martin, will explore how conserving military artifacts, such as uniforms and weaponry, preserves history for future generations while offering a unique, hands-on connection to the past.

Additional programming throughout the weekend will include performances by the 52nd Regimental String Band and the Mike Holden Jazz Orchestra, offering guests a unique musical experience tied to military history. Discovery Park educators will lead guided gallery tours, providing in-depth insights into the museum’s military exhibits.

J.C. Stahlman’s the Living Historians will be on-site throughout the Settlement on both days, bringing history to life with interactive demonstrations and storytelling. Through drill demonstrations, maneuvers and battlefield commands, The Living Historians provide an engaging educational experience, allowing guests to witness history firsthand.

“This event provides many unique opportunities for guests to engage with military history in a hands-on and meaningful way,” said Michael Larkin, director of education and museum experience for Discovery Park. “Whether you’re interested in historical reenactments, modern military technology or personal stories from service members, this year’s Military Expo has something for everyone.”

The 2025 Military Expo, sponsored by Dixie Gun Works and Union City Coca-Cola, is free with museum admission or membership. For a full list of events and biographies on the special guests, visit discoveryparkofamerica.com/militaryexpo.

All active-duty military personnel, veterans and their guests with them at the time of ticket purchase receive free admission to Discovery Park for the event on March 14 and 15, 2025.

Photo caption: Guests gathered at the 2024
Military Expo to learn from veterans and active-duty
service members.

Download High-Resolution Photo