CHICAGO -- For travelers walking through Chicago O’Hare International Airport’s Terminal 3 early this week, a little something extra awaited them — a full display from the Quantico, Va.-based National Museum of the Marine Corps.
The traveling exhibit is a part of the week-long event dubbed “Marine Week", which is currently underway with events scheduled through Sunday.
Marine volunteers from the museum donned special uniforms — also known as “period uniforms” — representative of past eras from as early as World War I and stood with various displays. Visitors to the exhibit were able to view numerous combat illustrations, historical documentations, a video from the museum, as well as talk with a number of Marines past and present.
“I’m very pleased to see people actively asking questions and interacting with the Marines present,” said Gwenn Adams, Director of Public Affairs for the museum. “Visitors really seem to enjoy seeing the Marines and watching them interpret Marine Corps history and traditions.”
Marines answered questions, and shared stories with numerous travelers making their way to board their flights.
“The one-on-one time with Marines here makes it memorable. It’s important for people to know that it’s not the uniforms or technology that makes the Marine Corps, it’s the individual Marine that shapes the Marine Corps throughout time,” said Adams.
Citizens and visitors to Chicago this week have been given opportunities to see numerous displays, performances, and community service efforts by Marines from all over the nation. The display caught the eye of travelers ranging from Transportation Security Administration agents to Marine moms. The exhibit seemingly contained something for everyone.
“The exhibit definitely offered better insight and information on the Corps’ past, present and future activities,” said Robert Kavka, a visitor to the museum’s display. “It also puts out the word that there is a Marine Corps Museum out there and is open to the public and anyone who wants to learn more about the Marine Corps.”
The traveling display will move to Navy Pier in Chicago on Thursday, and will provide the same exhibits as before, including full period Marine uniforms and artwork displays.
For more info on Marine Week Chicago, visit www.marines.mil/marineweek