Cantigny to show off military gear at Armed Forces Day event

Cantigny Park isn't shy about showing off how the men and women of the Armed Forces do their jobs, especially on the day dedicated just for them.

Military vehicle displays, re-enactors and active-duty soldiers talking to visitors about their work are an annual staple at the annual Armed Forces Day events at the park near Wheaton.

Saturday promises another full complement of activities at the First Division Museum grounds beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division in Fort Riley, Kan., will greet visitors at the visitor's center, golf course and First Division Museum, giving them an inside look into how technology impacts their work on the battlefield, said Mike Goodale, programs manager for the First Division Museum.

The group will be showing off three fully stocked military Humvees and explaining how they use the array of equipment inside.

"Today's Army is incredibly computer-oriented," Goodale said. "If you're not computer-oriented, some of the stuff these guys do can be mind-blowing."

Tours will be given throughout the day of both the tank park and the museum, which is dedicated to the history of the Army's First Infantry Division.

Several war-time re-enactors will be stationed outside the museum throughout the day, and children will have opportunities to dress like a soldier, paint their own camo boonie hats and write an active-duty soldier a thank-you letter.

Keni Thomas, a country singer and former Army Ranger who served with Goodale, will perform two afternoon shows outside the museum.

For details on Armed Forces Day events, call Cantigny Park at (630) 668-5161.

If you go

What: Armed Forces Day events

When: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 17

Where: Cantigny Park near Wheaton. Park entrance is just on the east side of Winfield Road, south of Roosevelt Road.

Cost: Free

Details: (630) 668-5161 or www.cantignypark.com