U.S. Army post established 1848 as defense against hostile Indians and to assert U.S. authority over lands acquired after the Mexican War. Headquarters for Confederate forces in Southwest during Civil War, later refitting post for military efforts against the wily, much-feared Apache chief, Geronimo. Today a U.S. Army Air Defense Center and combat training for allied nations.
3rd Armored Cavalry Museum--In Building 2407, Forrest Rd., is the 3rd Cavalry Museum, the "Regiment of Mounted Rifles" that fought in Mexican War and Indian campaigns. Open Mon. - Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Air Defense & Artillery Museum--In Building 5000, Pleasanton Rd. near Robert E. Lee Rd., is the U.S. Army Air Defense & Artillery Museum, only one of its kind in the country, with hands-on displays and dioramas about the history of air defense. Open Wed. - Sun. 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Fort Bliss Museum--Replica of original adobe fort maintained as museum of frontier military era; Pleasanton Rd. and Sheridan Dr. Open daily 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Museum of the Noncommissioned Officer--Traces history of the U.S. NCO corps with artifacts dating from the Revolutionary War. Open Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Sat., Sun. noon - 4 p.m. Biggs Army Airfield, Bldg. 11331, Barksdale & 5th Sts.
