Volo Auto Museum hosts Military Festival on Sunday
When it comes to attracting dads, the Volo Auto Museum does not need to put forth much effort.
After all, the museum features 300 classic and antique cars to browse. But add onto that the first chance to sit inside a military vehicle used in World War II and Desert Storm, and families may find the perfect place to take dad this Father's Day.
The Volo Auto Museum will hold a Father's Day Military Festival starting at 10 a.m. Sunday.
The family-owned Volo Auto Museum features an assortment of military vehicles and two Huey helicopters used from World War II through Vietnam and Iraq. These are all part of the Combat Zone and Military Museum complex that opened in 2004.
Among the many vehicles to see, is a Vietnam War wagon called the Squatter Swatter featuring six five-caliber guns and double reinforced armored walls. Or see the mobile rocket launchers that carry 14 rockets.
During the festival, children can try on U.S. military uniforms worn by combatants during World War II.
Actual M-16s used in major conflicts and in the movies also will be on display.
Throughout the day, military cannons, including a 105-mm black power cannon will demonstrate their fire power with the assistance of Captain Zak's World War II Presenters. The cannon can be heard five miles away.
This Chicago area re-enactor troop will be on site throughout the day to demonstrate the trials and tribulations of World War II encampments and educate the public about daily rituals and struggles during this period in history.
Holding the museum's first military festival allows the museum to honor the military's men and women. But just as the museum plans special attractions on holidays like Mother's Day and Memorial Day, Father's Day also offers a chance to provide something more for fathers and hopefully the whole family, assistant director Cyndi Sarabia said.
"There are certain days, such as Father's Day you can get people out to the museum. This is just what men want to do," she said. "But we want to offer something so they will want to bring the whole family."
Joining the Volo Museum's arsenal of military vehicles will be artifacts found in the military museum.
Among the artifacts is a strand of President Abraham Lincoln's hair.
In addition to this military experience, 300 classic and antique cars will be on display.
The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $10 per adult. Military personnel dressed in uniform are admitted free.
The Volo Auto Museum is on Route 120, two blocks west of Route 12. For information, call (815) 385-3644 or visit the Web site www.volocars.com.