Visit the Veterans Memorial Park Tuscaloosa to examine examples of equipment used by the U.S Armed Forces, and to see monuments honoring discharged veterans. The park commemorates the veterans of all sections of the U.S. Armed Forces. It sits on the site of the former Northington General Army Hospital, which was one of the largest military hospitals toward the end of WWII.
The focal point of the park’s attractions is the mast of the USS Tuscaloosa CA37 battle cruiser. The ship played a significant part during WWII campaigns, including at Normandy, Okinawa and Iwo Jima. Close to the mast you’ll see one of the ship’s artillery guns, used to combat aircraft attacks.
Among other interesting things to see is a suspended Vought A-7E Corsair, an aircraft similar to those used during the Vietnam War. Check out the military helicopter, tank and jeep and read the interpretive signs that provide information about the vehicles and their roles in combat.
Don’t miss the several Honor Roll of Veterans monuments situated around the park. These engraved walls display the names of some 3,000 veterans who served in the U.S. Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Navy.
Time your visit to be part of events that celebrate the memory of the men, women and veterans that served in or lost their lives while representing the U.S Armed Forces. Memorial Day takes place on the last Monday of May and Veterans Day is in November. Find full details of the events on the park’s official website.
Located in midtown Tuscaloosa, the Veterans Memorial Park Tuscaloosa is a 10-minute drive from the city’s downtown district. If arriving by car, you’ll find free parking at the adjacent University Mall. The Tuscaloosa trolley stops at University Mall.
The park is open daily, from dawn to dusk. Admission to the park is free.