Army Seeks Volunteers to Staff New National Museum

When the Army calls for volunteers, it's traditionally for something that's mind-numbingly tedious and difficult, or possibly not well suited to continued good health. But this time it's different.

The service is looking for volunteers to staff the $200 million National Museum of the United States Army for its planned 2020 grand opening at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, about 30 miles south of Washington, D.C.

"Our volunteer opportunities will complement our daily operations, and there is a spot for you as a volunteer," Museum Director Tammy Call said in a news release Monday.

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, but no prior military service is required. They can serve in visitor services, special events, tours, education, gardening and administration, and can even pick the shift they prefer, according to the release.

Though still under construction, the museum is seeking volunteer applications now, so that their interests can be matched with the museum's needs. Those interested in applying should visit the museum's website, or call 1-800-506-2672, the release states.

The museum wants volunteers "who are passionate about the U.S. Army and sharing the stories of the men and women who have worn the Army uniform throughout our nation's history."

The Army projects that the museum will attract about 750,000 visitors annually and plans for it to stay open seven days a week year round, except for Christmas.

The museum is meant to honor the service, sacrifice and traditions of the more than 30 million soldiers who have put on the uniform since 1775.

Fundraising has been the task of the nonprofit Army Historical Foundation. The 84-acre site at Fort Belvoir will include the 185,000-square-foot main building to house the Army Art Collection, artifacts, documents and images. A parade ground, grandstand, amphitheater, memorial garden and Army Trail are also planned.

-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.