Exhibit of the Month: Exploring the Military History Room

History is shaped by the people who serve, the technology they develop, and the moments that change the course of the world.

This month, the Tularosa Basin Historical Society Museum is highlighting our Military History Room, an exhibit dedicated to the stories of service, innovation, and sacrifice that have helped shape both our community and our nation.

The Tularosa Basin has a unique connection to military history. From the presence of Holloman Air Force Base to the advancements in aviation and aerospace technology developed in the region, southern New Mexico has played an important role in the story of America’s defense and exploration.

The Military History Room brings these stories together through artifacts, photographs, models, and displays that highlight the people and events behind some of the most significant moments in military history.

USS New Mexico: A Battleship Named for Our State

Among the stories featured in the exhibit is the history of the USS New Mexico (BB-40), the first United States Navy ship named in honor of the state of New Mexico.

Commissioned in 1918, the USS New Mexico served during a time of major change in naval history. Shortly after completing initial training, the battleship helped escort USS George Washington, the ship that carried President Woodrow Wilson to France for the signing of the Treaty of Versailles following World War I.

During World War II, USS New Mexico played an important role in Pacific operations. The battleship participated in campaigns throughout the Pacific, including operations in the Aleutian Islands, the Marshall Islands, the Mariana and Palau Islands, the Philippines, and Okinawa.

Near the end of the war, USS New Mexico suffered a devastating attack by Japanese kamikaze aircraft while stationed near Okinawa. The attack resulted in the loss of 54 crew members and injuries to 119 others. Despite the damage, the ship continued its service and was later present in Tokyo Bay for the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on September 2, 1945. After completing its service, USS New Mexico was decommissioned in 1946.

Though the battleship itself is no longer in existence, its legacy continues through the stories preserved today, including those shared in our Military History Room.

The USS New Mexico represents more than a naval vessel. It represents the connection between the people of this state and the individuals who served aboard her.

From the Sea to the Sky: The F-117 Nighthawk

The Military History Room also highlights the aviation history that has become such an important part of the Tularosa Basin.

One of the most recognizable pieces in the exhibit is the model of the F-117A Nighthawk, an aircraft with a special connection to the local community.

For more than a decade, residents of the Tularosa Basin watched F-117A aircraft flying overhead as the aircraft and its crews became part of the region’s history.

From May 1992 until its retirement in 2008, the F-117A was closely connected to the community through its presence at Holloman Air Force Base.

The model displayed in the museum has its own story. Originally built by Lockheed Martin as an engineering tool used during the aircraft’s development, the model was later donated to the Air Force after the aircraft’s design became publicly known.

After years on display, the model was restored through the efforts of community members and members of the Tularosa Basin Historical Society. The careful restoration work helped preserve not only the model itself, but also the memories and connections it represents.

The F-117A serves as a reminder that military history is not only about machines. It is also about the people who designed them, flew them, maintained them, and lived alongside them.

Continuing New Mexico’s Naval Legacy

The legacy of USS New Mexico continues today through the USS New Mexico (SSN-779), a Virginia-class submarine and the second United States Navy vessel named for the state.

Commissioned in 2010, the submarine carries forward the name and tradition established by the original battleship. Its crest even reflects elements connected to New Mexico, including the Zia symbol and imagery representing the state’s culture and history.

Together, these stories show how one name can carry generations of service and represent the continued connection between New Mexico and the United States military.

Discover the Stories Behind the Exhibit

The Military History Room is more than a collection of objects. It is a place where visitors can learn about the people, technology, and events that shaped our history.

Every uniform, photograph, model, and artifact represents a story.

Behind every aircraft, ship, and piece of equipment are the people who built them, operated them, and dedicated their lives to service.

Visit the Tularosa Basin Historical Society Museum to explore the Military History Room and discover the stories that connect our community to a much larger history.