Education
Iron Mike @ ASOM
A few weeks ago, the original Iron Mike Statue, which was previously displayed on base at Fort Bragg, was moved to the Airborne and Special Operations Museum in historic downtown Fayetteville where it now stands at the entrance to the museum, welcoming visitors. With the original deteriorating, a new, bronze Iron Mike replaced the old in 2005. After being refurbished, the 16 ft. 4in., 3,235 lb. original statue’s new home was selected.
The term “Iron Mike” is usually used as American slang to refer to men who are especially tough, brave and inspiring. Fayetteville’s Iron Mike represents a World War II-era Airborne trooper, since Fort Bragg is the “Home of the Airborne,” with the 82nd Airborne Division and XVIII Airborne Corps headquartered there. While the Iron Mike was modeled after former VXII Airborne Corps Commander Lt. Gen. Robert F. Sink, the statue was not named after one man or unit, but is dedicated to all paratroopers; past, present and future.
If you haven’t seen the Iron Mike Statue, I highly recommend taking a trip to the ASOM to check it out. While you’re there, check out this amazing museum itself to learn more about the history of the Airborne and the different conflicts they have been a part of beginning in 1940 and ending with the current wars. There is even simulator that will make you feel like you’re a paratrooper yourself!
Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop before you leave – I’ve bought a lot of great gifts for my loved ones in the military. And, don’t hesitate to bring visitors here too!