The Georgia WWII Heritage Trail, a network of museums and historic sites across Georgia dedicated to preserving the stories of the Greatest Generation, will reach a new milestone by marking its fourth anniversary on February 21, 2025.
This statewide initiative offers a mix of aviation history, military training sites, and home front contributions and emphasizes collective remembrance. Each site offers unique exhibits, programs, and experiences that delve into various aspects of Georgia’s involvement in World War II.
“The Trail serves as an educational and tourism initiative,” said Ed Coleman, Georgia WWII Heritage Trail Chair. “Our mission is to encourage visitors to explore Georgia’s deep connection to World War II and share in the legacy of the Greatest Generation.”
Sites on the Trail:
- National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force (Pooler) – Honors the history and sacrifices of the Eighth Air Force, which was founded in Savannah.
- St. Marys Submarine Museum (St. Marys) – Showcases the history of submarines and the role of the Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base.
- World War II Flight Training Museum (Douglas) – Preserves an original airfield used to train WWII Army Air Corps pilots.
- World War II Home Front Museum (St. Simons Island) – Focuses on civilian contributions, including shipbuilding and coastal defense.
- Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame (Warner Robins) – Highlights Georgia’s aviation pioneers, including military aviators from WWII.
- Museum of Aviation (Warner Robins) – Features WWII aircraft and exhibits on military aviation history.
- National Infantry Museum (Columbus) – Chronicles the history of the U.S. Infantry, including WWII campaigns.
- National Prisoner of War Museum (Andersonville) – Tells the story of American POWs, including those from WWII.
- Commemorative Air Force Airbase Georgia Museum (Peachtree City) – Restores and flies WWII-era aircraft to preserve their history.
- Currahee Military Museum (Toccoa) – Honors the paratroopers of the 506th PIR, 101st Airborne Division, who trained at Camp Toccoa.
- Thomaston Goes to War (Upson Historical Society) (Thomaston) – Highlights the impact of WWII on a small Southern town.
For more information about the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail, including a complete list of partner sites and upcoming events, please visit the Trail website. To assist you in your travel plans, visit the Explore Georgia website which provides extensive information on popular destinations, dining options, accommodations, and curated travel itineraries. Established in 2021, the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail unites eleven museums and historic sites to preserve and share the state’s significant role in World War II (1941-1945). Over 300,000 Georgians served in the military, and thousands of civilians worked in rapidly expanding defense industries. The Trail highlights the heroism of service members and civilians by offering visitors immersive exhibits and educational programs that reveal Georgia’s contribution to Allied victory. By fostering understanding and pride, the Trail ensures that these important stories of resilience and sacrifice endure for future generations. To learn more, please visit www.georgiawwiitrail.org.