Ghost Army: The Combat Con Artists of World War II
ON VIEW MAY 25 – AUGUST 25, 2024
Ghost Army: The Combat Con Artists of World War II, a special exhibition created by the National World War II Museum, explores the story of a top-secret unit — the U.S. Army’s 23rd Headquarters Special Troops — known as the “Ghost Army.”
The 23rd was the first mobile, multimedia, tactical deception unit in U.S. Army history. This talented team of 1,105 artists, engineers, professional soldiers and draftees were capable of simulating two divisions (approximately 30,000 men) utilizing rubber inflatable tanks, trucks and planes; false radio messages, sound effects; and other disinformation tactics. During World War II, they perfected battlefield deception to deceive German troops and safeguard the lives of thousands of Allied soldiers. The 23rd Headquarters Special Troops included future famed artists Bill Blass, Ellsworth Kelly and Art Kane.
Ghost Army: The Combat Con Artists of World War II is exclusively sponsored by E. L. Wiegand Foundation.
Related Events:
SATURDAY, JULY 27 | 6 P.M.
Spy Night at the Museum
Think you have what it takes to join the Ghost Army of World War II? Challenge your wits and unravel mysteries at our Spy Game Night at the NVMM! Immerse yourself in an evening of deception, fun, and inspiration as you step into the shoes of the combat con artists who outwitted the enemy.
