U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum

The U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum is located at the Fort Jackson Army Base in Columbia, South Carolina. This museum documents and preserves the history of the Army’s basic training program from its beginnings in 1917 to the present day. It provides a historical overview of how the Army trains and prepares new soldiers for military service.

The U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum features more than 7,500 square feet of exhibit space. Permanent exhibits include uniforms, weapons, training gear, and photographs that illustrate the evolution of basic training over the decades. The displays highlight changes in training methods, equipment, and the overall soldier experience. In addition to its core exhibits, the museum occasionally hosts temporary displays focused on specific themes or newly acquired artifacts.

Admission is free and the museum is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with extended hours on Fort Jackson’s Family Day. It is closed on weekends and all federal holidays. Since the museum is located on an active military installation, visitors must comply with Fort Jackson’s access procedures, which may include presenting a valid ID and undergoing a background check at the gate.

This museum is part of the Army Museum Enterprise and serves as an educational resource for soldiers, families, and the public. It offers a clear and informative view of how the Army has trained generations of soldiers, and it plays a role in preserving the heritage of one of the most critical components of military readiness.