Russian World War II tank coming to Indiana Military Museum

VINCENNES, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – The Indiana Military Museum will hold a ceremony to unveil the tank on Saturday, April 20.

The Russian Model T3485 tank had a long journey to Vincennes, as it was originally acquired by a curator in Wisconsin named Bob Costa. He sent a letter directly to former Soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev asking for the piece.

The tank is still in perfect running condition, and curator at the Indiana Military Museum Jim Osborne noted they plan on taking it out from time to time. He could not be more thrilled to add the vehicle to the collection.

“It’s here because Bob and I became good friends over the years,” he said. “His museum had to close for various reasons and he came and visited the Indiana Military Museum and said this is where I would like it to end up. If something happens to me this is where it’s going to come.”

This is no ordinary tank, and Osborne was quick to articulate its importance.

“This type of tank represents a real significant piece of history,” he said. “it is probably one of the most historic type tanks of the World War II period.”

The ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday and is free to the public.

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