Supporters of the National Museum of the United States Army (NMUSA) continue to purchase commemorative bricks as a lasting tribute that will be placed on the NMUSA campus.

Bricks have been purchased by supporters to honor soldiers, Army units, Army families, Department of the Army civilians, museum and Army supporters, and others.

In addition to purchasing bricks, many have chosen to share the personal story behind their bricks and the inscriptions through the “Why My Brick” program.

Retired Col. Irma Hagans Cooper purchased a brick to honor her own storied military service as a female, a nurse and a commander.

Cooper had a 30-year Army career from 1983-2013. Throughout her career, she served as commander of the 113th Medical Company, 7305th Medical Training Support Battalion (Combat Stress Control), and the 176th Medical Group.

She was deployed to Iraq in 2003.

“I purchased a brick so my sons and family will know my military legacy,” Cooper explained. “When my sons visit the National Museum of the United States Army they will know that their mother served her country with pride and honor.”

Capt. Moses Eugene Aaron also purchased a brick in honor of his Army service.

He was a ROTC distinguished military graduate from Florida A&M University. He entered military service as a Regular Army second lieutenant in January 1966. He served in Wurzburg, Germany and Vietnam and resigned his commission in 1970.

Aaron explained his brick serves as a lasting tribute to his Army service. “I formed my most rewarding friendships in the U.S. Army and the Army ROTC program. Those experiences made me the person I have become for the better.”

Interested in reading more “Why My Brick” stories or sharing your own?

Visit armyhistory.org/why-my-brick/.

Eager to share your brick on social media? Tag a picture of yourself with #myarmybrick and we’ll share your post.