The National Infantry Museum welcomed members, supporters, and distinguished guests on August 16, 2025, for the 1775 Society Annual Gala and Auction. One of the museum’s signature annual events, the Gala brought together a dedicated community committed to preserving and sharing the history, heritage, and legacy of the United States Army Infantry.
Through sponsorships, auction participation, and continued philanthropic support, the evening helped provide vital resources that advance the mission of the National Infantry Museum Foundation and ensure the stories of America’s Infantry Soldiers are preserved for future generations.
Celebrating the 1775 Society Annual Gala and Auction
The Annual Gala and Auction is more than an evening of celebration. It is an opportunity for 1775 Society members, donors, community leaders, and museum supporters to come together around a shared mission.
Throughout the evening, guests were reminded of the important role philanthropy plays in sustaining the National Infantry Museum. Continued support helps the museum preserve historic artifacts, share the stories of Infantry Soldiers, educate visitors, and honor generations of service and sacrifice.
1775 Society Chairman John Shinkle welcomed attendees and encouraged members to continue strengthening their commitment to the museum and its long-term mission.
Annual Gala Auction Highlights and the Infantry’s 250th Birthday
The live and silent auctions remain among the most anticipated traditions of the Annual Gala.
For months leading up to the event, members of the Auction Committee worked to secure donations from individuals, businesses, and supporters across the country. Their efforts resulted in an impressive collection of unique experiences, artwork, military memorabilia, and exclusive items for guests to bid on throughout the evening.
One particularly meaningful auction item was a custom carving of the Infantry’s 250th Birthday commemorative coin, honoring the historic 250th anniversary of the United States Army Infantry in 2025.
The success of the auction reflected both the dedication of the committee and the generosity of the many individuals and organizations who contributed.
Recognizing the Sponsors Behind the 2025 Annual Gala
The 1775 Society proudly recognized Mr. Sunny Park of the Park Family Foundation as the presenting sponsor of the 2025 Annual Gala and Auction.
His generosity, along with the steadfast support of the National Infantry Museum Foundation’s Premier and Sustaining Partners, helped make the evening possible.
Their support demonstrates the important role philanthropic leadership plays in protecting the museum’s mission and expanding its impact. From major commemorative events to educational programs and preservation efforts, the generosity of museum supporters helps ensure the legacy of the American Infantry continues to be shared with visitors from across the country.
Preserving the Legacy of the American Infantry
During the evening, National Infantry Museum Foundation President BG (Ret) Pete Jones reflected on the enduring legacy of the Infantry and the importance of preserving its history.
America’s independence was secured through the courage and sacrifice of Infantry Soldiers, and the National Infantry Museum exists to ensure those stories are never forgotten.
President Jones also thanked community and state leaders for their continued support throughout an especially significant year for the museum, which included events such as the Korean War Memorial Dedication and the Infantry 250th Birthday Celebration.
Together, these commemorations and programs help connect new generations with the service, courage, and sacrifice that have shaped the history of the United States Army Infantry.
The Impact of Supporting the National Infantry Museum
The 2025 Annual Gala and Auction demonstrated what can be accomplished when museum members, donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community leaders unite around a common purpose.
Support for the National Infantry Museum Foundation helps:
- Preserve important Infantry artifacts and historical collections
- Share the stories of Soldiers and their families
- Educate museum visitors and future generations
- Honor the courage, sacrifice, and service of the American Infantry
- Support programs, commemorations, and special events that bring Infantry history to life
Guests departed the evening with renewed enthusiasm for the Foundation’s mission and a shared commitment to safeguarding the history and heritage of the Infantry for generations to come.
Annual Gala and Auction 2025 Photo Gallery
Looking Ahead to the Annual Gala and Auction 2026
We would love to welcome you to the 2026 Annual Gala and Auction as the National Infantry Museum prepares for its grandest Gala yet and joins the nation in commemorating America 250.
Whether you attend the Gala, join the 1775 Society, become a sponsor, or support the National Infantry Museum Foundation in another way, your involvement helps ensure the stories of America’s Infantry Soldiers continue to be preserved, honored, and shared.
→ Learn more about the 1775 Society
Discover how you can support the mission of the National Infantry Museum.
→ Learn more about the Annual Gala & Auction
Join the National Infantry Museum Foundation for its signature black-tie fundraising event, hosted annually by the 1775 Society.
→ Learn more about the Sponsorship Opportunities
We invite you to explore the impact your sponsorship can have.