State authorities are honoring active servicemen and women as well as their families by offering them access to historical sites free of charge.

Members of the active duty forces, including federally-activated members of the National Guard and Reserve, and their families will be able to take advantage of free admissions to visit Pennsylvania's 23 historical sites.

"Pennsylvania's historical sites and museums offer epic stories of our nation's history through stunning exhibits, living history programs, and hands-on demonstrations," says Barbara Franco, executive director of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.

She adds, "We invite active duty personnel, their spouses, children and siblings to experience our sites and learn more about themselves and what the past can teach us about our culture and current events."

The attractions and activities that these and other visitors can enjoy throughout the state include U.S. Brig Niagara, following in the footsteps of George Washington, visit to the Ephrata Cloister as well as the site of the first commercial oil well.

As Franco puts it, "history comes to life at Pennsylvania's historical sites."