For nearly 60 years, the Fort Sam Houston Museum has told the story of the Army in San Antonio — from its beginnings as a quartermaster depot in 1845 to its role today in “Military City USA.” Inside its six rooms are artifacts that connect Texans, veterans, and families to generations of service and sacrifice.

Among its treasures is the Colt revolver that helped shape Texas history, uniforms dating back hundreds of years, and memorabilia from leaders like Dwight D. Eisenhower, who began his Army career at Fort Sam. The museum also honors Gen. Jonathan Wainwright, a Medal of Honor recipient and prisoner of war, and countless others who passed through the Quadrangle gates.

But now, this one-of-a-kind museum is at risk of closure. The Army Center of Military History has announced plans to reduce its museums nationwide from 41 to just 16 over the next three years. Local preservationists have been told Fort Sam’s museum is among those in danger, though no official list or timeline has been released.

If Fort Sam’s museum closes, San Antonio will lose more than artifacts. We will lose a living classroom where thousands of schoolchildren have learned about service and sacrifice. We will lose a gathering place where veterans reconnect with their history. We will lose a vital part of the city’s identity as Military City USA.

The Army cites staffing shortages and shifting priorities as reasons for the cuts. But San Antonio’s history cannot be measured only in budgets. Closing Fort Sam’s museum would break faith with a community that has supported the Army for generations and proudly calls itself its partner.

We call on Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth, Brig. Gen. Shane P. Morgan (Chief of Military History), and the Fort Sam Houston Garrison Commander to guarantee the museum’s future and explore alternatives like community partnerships, volunteers, or local funding.

This museum is more than a building — it is our history, our pride, and our story. San Antonio has stood with the Army for 180 years. Now we ask the Army to stand with us.

Add your name to protect the Fort Sam Houston Museum before it’s too late.