LEXINGTON, Va. March 27, 2024 — The VMI Museum has opened a new exhibit on the life and career of Gen. George C. Marshall, VMI Class of 1901, following renovations to the Kohen Gallery of the Citizen-Soldier. 

The exhibit features objects from the VMI Museum collection, like a plaster casting of Marshall’s hands made in 1957 for a statue which was never completed and his portrait. There are objects on loan from the George C. Marshall Foundation, including the pocket watch Marshall’s mother presented him upon his VMI graduation, a simple leather briefcase Marshall carried throughout his career, his five-star helmet, his campaign hat worn during his years as assistant commandant of the Fort Benning (now Fort Moore) Infantry School, and his Army chief of staff uniform.

“General Marshall is one of the most significant world figures of the 20th century, and in all of American history,” said Col. Keith Gibson ’77, director of the museum. “He is the epitome of the citizen-soldier. Our museum was founded in 1845 to share the inspiring stories of alumni like George Marshall.”

Additional items have also been installed to the Gen. George S. Patton Jr., VMI Class of 1907 exhibit, including a garment bag used by Patton, and his personal M1 carbine, presented to him in North Africa during WWII.  A re-working of the Moses Ezekiel, VMI Class of 1866, exhibit, and several other exhibits highlighting the lives of distinguished alumni round out the new installation.

The VMI Museum is located in Memorial Hall on post. It is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free of charge. No reservations are necessary for small groups. Large group tours may be scheduled by calling 540-464-7334.

Marianne Hause
Communications & Marketing
VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE