The Permanent Presence Gallery explores the thirty-year period that women served in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) with Regular Army and Army Reserve status. This gallery provides visitors with an understanding that although permanent status came with challenges, an emphasis on image and professionalism helped ensure the longevity and success of the WAC. Artifacts in this gallery demonstrate how barriers were removed and inequalities were eliminated as the Army focused on women’s training and utilization around the world. The exhibit spotlights changes to women’s roles in the Army and in society that reinforced the belief that a separate Women’s Army Corps was inefficient, resulting in its disestablishment in 1978.

Kutsch Helmet

Private Joyce Kutsch wore this M1 Combat Helmet and Liner while attending Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia in 1973. Kutsch was one of the first two WACs to attend jump school in 1973.

Vietnam Guidon

This guidon was used in Vietnam by the WAC Detachment, United States Army Vietnam (USARV), 1968–1972.

WAC Drum

Bass drum #2 was used by band members of the 14th Army Band during the years when the WAC Center and School was located at Fort McClellan, Alabama.

Vietnam Gallery

Items on display in the Vietnam exhibit include a welcome sign for the WAC Director, a non-military windbreaker, black pumps, and combat boots.