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Houma’s military museum has a new addition that, although not a part of U.S. military history, has an impressive service record.
The Regional Military Museum on Barrow Street purchased the British Scorpion tank, which saw service in the first Gulf War. It was delivered Friday, said Museum Director C.J. Christ.
It was built in 1982 for the British Army, he said, and declared surplus in 1996. Afterward, it was put into service by the Belgian Army.
“It cost $50,000,” said Christ, who added it will be inside the museum on display with other vehicles and weapons.
“It is a military artifact and that is what we do,” said Christ. “We have six jeeps and five run, a missile carrier which runs and an armored personnel carrier which also runs, as well as a landing craft in perfect condition and a German motorcycle.”
In addition to being a display piece inside the museum, Christ said, the tank will be used in parades and other events.
Houma businessman Mike Fesi transported the tank from Tulsa, Oklahoma, where it was part of a private collection, Christ said.
Military websites describe the Scorpion as a light tank which is still used by countries in various parts of the world.
The one purchased by the museum has a functional equipment, although its gun has been demilitarized.
“It’s in perfect running order, everything is done,” Christ said. “Every antenna, every voice communications system. But I do believe they are on Belgian antenna frequencies.”
Mike Fesi, president of PCM and Regional Military Museum Director C.J. Christ introduce the museum’s Scorpion tank, which was delivered Friday. Fesi arranged the transport of the surplus tank from Oklahoma at no charge
