On Saturday, May 15, Armed Forces Day, the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex will salute the men, women and families of our nation's military with a special event, Armed Forces Living History Day.

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., this free event will feature family-friendly living history presentations, educational programs and hands-on activities. The event will begin with a special flag ceremony, featuring JROTC students from Western Harnett High School. Throughout the day re-enactors and displays will highlight the history of the United States military.

On the grounds of the museum complex, tour encampments representing the War of 1812, the Mexican War and Civil War. The program will also feature 20th century re-enactors and displays, featuring weapons, equipment and vehicles from both World Wars, as well as the Vietnam era. Weapons demonstrations will take place throughout the day, as well as a performance of traditional banjo and fiddle tunes from N.C. Folk Heritage Award winner Marvin Gaster, accompanied by Richard Owens on guitar.

The concert, which begins at 1 p.m., will feature some of the traditional fiddle and banjo tunes that have found their way into the ranks of the U.S. military in years gone by.

Gaster is a retired history teacher from Lee County, but he is also a nationally acclaimed banjoist, fiddler and musical historian.

In 2000 he received the North Carolina Folk Heritage Award, in recognition of his contributions to traditional music.

Owens, of Fayetteville, is a retired Air Force officer and Vietnam veteran. He originally hails from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, and grew up in an atmosphere steeped in traditional music.

"Some seating will be provided, but feel free to bring a lawn chair or blanket as we celebrate, honor and remember the men, women and families of our armed forces," says a spokesman.

This is a free event.

"While visiting the museum complex, be sure to see 'Hugh's Crate,' a special exhibit featuring the personal effects of Lt. Hugh Wellons, a Cumberland County native killed in Vietnam in 1966," says the spokesman. "The exhibit is a compelling and touching tribute to all of our nation's fallen heroes."

Armed Forces Living History Day is one of the many 31 Days of Glory events taking place throughout May. For more information about this event, go to www.31daysofglory.com

For more information about the museum, call (910) 486-1330 or visit the website www.museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov.

The Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex, located on the corner of Bradford and Arsenal avenues in Fayetteville, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.