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No era may have shaken the world more than the time period between 1939-1945. The museum provides a variety of exhibits and displays that help you better understand the role of the 1^st Division—and the role of America—during World War II.

Once you have learned about America’s entry into World War II, step into Fort Devens and hear radio broadcasts from 1941, including President Franklin Delano Roosevelt addressing Congress after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Pay strict attention as Sergeant Bielinski, a 1st Infantry Division drill sergeant sternly addresses new recruits.

After enduring basic training, step into North Africa to see one of Rommel’s AfrikaKorps soldiers manning a German anti-tank gun. Discover the division’s first encounter with the enemy as it attacked the beach in Oran, Algeria and fought in the harsh conditions of the North African desert.

While there, test your combat knowledge on the touch screen, learn about weapons and tactics, or hear veterans talk about their experiences fighting with the Big Red One.

Watch genuine video footage and listen on field phones as the division lands at Gela and fights its way across the rough mountainous terrain of Sicily.

See artifacts of some of the division’s colorful and heroic soldiers, including Teddy Roosevelt, Jr.’s cane and Captain John Finke’s helmet, which shows where the bullet that pierced it nearly took his life.

Captain John Finke’s helmet

Teddy Roosevelt, Jr.’s cane

Next up, get ready for the “Big Show” as the division embarks on one of its toughest missions, the landing at OMAHA Beach, Normandy, France. Sit in a landing craft to watch a film about the Fighting First’s landing, and hear a soldier’s letter home as he says goodbye for what could be the last time. Experience the story of Lieutenant John Spaulding as he recounts his unit’s fight to get ashore and onto the bluffs overlooking the beach.

As the ramp goes up, step onto OMAHA Beach the day after the invasion. Read stories of heroism that contributed to the victory and see one of three Medals of Honor earned on that horrific day.

Medal of Honor case

Walk through a German bunker and learn how the 1^st Division helped gain a foothold in “Fortress Europe.” Read the stories of eleven 1st Division Medal of Honor recipients as you pass into the Battle of the Bulge.

Observe the 1st Division as it enters an enemy-controlled, snow-filled village in Belgium during the Battle of the Bulge. Discover how tanks and infantry worked together, and see the camouflage that soldiers used to conceal themselves during one of the coldest and snowiest winters in European history.

Travel with Jack Thompson as he accompanies the 1^st Division as it fights across the continent. Hear news stories that were published in the Chicago Tribune, and see footage of the division in action throughout Europe.