Scale Models Make a Big Impact

Texas native Warren D. Harkins served his country in the United States Air Force before finding another way to impact the Big Country and surrounding areas. As founder and curator of the Museum of Military Models in Clyde, Texas, Harkins now helps veterans find peace through his non-profit work and partnership with Texas Hunters for Heroes.

Harkins was born in Granbury and raised in several cities across Texas — including Lipan, Colorado City, and Snyder — before moving to Hobbs, New Mexico, where he attended middle and high school. With a continued interest in both history and the military, Harkins joined the Civil Air Patrol at 13 and participated in the Cadet program throughout much of his teen years.

Upon graduation, he completed a few college courses before enlisting in the Air Force during the Vietnam War era. Later, after receiving a Commissioning Scholarship during the Vietnam War, he returned to his studies at the University of Oklahoma and majored in History.

While much of Harkins’ time in the Air Force was spent with the 390th Strategic Missile Wing — the first of America’s three Titan II wings — his extensive collection includes more than just missiles. The museum boasts more than 200 model ships, 350 model airplanes, several dozen tanks and armored vehicles, and a collection of artillery and cannon shells spanning the past five centuries. And that’s not to mention the consistent stream of custom replicas Harkins has commissioned each year.

“There are lots and lots of battles that have happened throughout time and there’s lots and lots of history to learn. And sadly, at my age, I have to relearn — the things I learned 50 years ago in school I’ve forgotten or remember vaguely, so I try to go back and study to try to reeducate myself,” he explained.

In fact, that’s how Harkins chooses which models to add to his collection. He studies until he comes across a particularly interesting piece of equipment, learns all he can about it, and then finds or commissions a replica, thus placing an emphasis on education and appreciation for this equipment and those who manned it.

“Any time you serve on a ship, whether in peacetime or war, there are many things that happen that could potentially harm you. The crews are always in harm’s way,” Harkins explained. “I think (it’s important) just to make people aware of what happened and where we came from, and the huge sacrifices that these people made to actually get us where we are today. To show the significance of what they (the models) represent to everybody.”

Now, with his newly renovated museum and his collection of 600+ pieces, Harkins is working to educate the public and honor those who have served throughout history.

“A lot of veterans like to come through and see the models. It reminds them of some of the things — good times and bad times — that they went through. So, it’s very satisfying for them, as well… You get to talking about it (a model) like it’s a real ship,” he said.

When asked about Warren’s contributions to the Texas Hunters for Heroes program, West Texas chapter President Chris English wasted no time in singing Harkins’ praises.

“Warren has a large property with fishing ponds that are fully stocked, and he allows us to use his land for our veteran programs,” English shared. “When we opened in 2016, we were a hunting organization with no place to hunt. He was our very first sponsor and has been with us since day one. He is an amazing businessman and even sat down and helped me get our first business plan together. We wouldn’t be where we are today without his help.”

English continued, “He’s helping us save lives. Our hunts are meant to bring relief and relaxation so we can speak to these vets about PTSD and the high suicide rates within the community. We offer a weekend with their fellow brothers. Warren has actually saved lives — he’s offered that support, that love, that community. I can’t put a price on that. That’s invaluable. There aren’t a lot of people out there like that.”

At the time of publication, the Museum of Military Models sits within a remodeled 800-square-foot ranch house on Harkins’ private ranch between Clyde and Abilene that now spans an impressive 4,600 square feet. An additional 3,200 square feet of exhibit, event, and meeting space is set to open later this year which will allow for an expansion of museum space and the ability to accommodate larger groups and more visitors in the coming years.

Tours are available by appointment only. There’s no admission cost to visit; however, donations are welcomed and encouraged, with proceeds benefitting the West Texas branch of Texas Hunters for Heroes.

Plan Your Visit Today!
The Museum of Military Models
2177 FM 603
Clyde, TX, 79510
mommtx.com
Open Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.