Military Museum Looks Find out More about Donated Relics
By: Import User
Updated: January 7, 2009
The National Military Heritage Museum in St. Joseph houses at least 14-thousand artifacts. Every single one is donated. Sometimes, administrators get memorabilia or photographs without knowing the history behind the donations. Here`s a look at some of the mysteries that haunt the museum dedicated to those who served their country.
We don`t know who he is or when the picture was taken.
One highly decorated Sergeant earned the Good Conduct medal performed several missions in the the pacific and was twice awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism. Its the highest award next to the Medal of Honor. But no one knows who he is or what has become of him. "If anyone knows who his is please let us know" says Museum Executive Director Frank Flesher.
Its just one of the many mysteries that lurk in the 116-year old building housing the museum. Flesher says while he is grateful for any donations, he says often, important information is missing from these artifacts.
Wesley Rupe is big supporter of the museum and frequently brings in items to donate. Today he brings in a book on war ships. "Its too bad some of these things are forgotten when they are passed down and end up in someone`s attic" says Rupe.
Recently someone donated this picture taken here in this building. The picture shows the 105th Milli-meter Howitzer Battery Marine Corps Reserves but there are so many that are unidentified.
And no one knows what the original purpose is of a safe located nine feet off the ground in the corner office of the Military Museum but Flesher has a theory. "Some say it was used to keep the payroll for City employees" says Flesher about one theory. Flesher also wants to find out more about the people who served in Rosecrans during World War II so he can document their experiences and solve some of the museum`s mysterious past.
Though the museum is always taking donations, what it needs now is money. The museum has racked-up a $1300 gas bill and has no way of paying it. Flesher says he`s managed to raise only about five hundred dollars and fears the gas may be turned off. If you would like to donate, you can drop by the museum or call (816) 233-4321.
