Memorial Day: The National WWII Museum

The New Orleans attraction inspires visitors

In 1868, a veterans’ organization established Decoration Day — a remembrance we now celebrate as Memorial Day.

Part of the event to me involves recalling service and sacrifice by my family and ancestors. My father was a longtime officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. Both of my grandfathers served in World War I.

I also find visiting history museums or memorials give me a chance to contemplate past events that have made our country and world what it is today.

Earlier this week, I visited the National World War II Museum in New Orleans. It was an acknowledgment of the sacrifice of many and a heart-swelling celebration of patriotic pride.

A statue of President Franklin Roosevelt at the National World War II Museum. (Photo by John Naughton.)

The museum opened in 2000 and has undergone several expansions since, both in terms of presenting information and entertainment. There are shops and restaurants and even a 1940s-inspired clothing store.

There are significant exhibits on the weaponry of war, from small arms to airplanes and small watercraft. There aren’t the grand aircraft displays you will find at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museums, however.

Displays from land and sea are on hand at the National World War II Museum. (Photo by John Naughton.)

While there is significant devotion to the warfront, there are elements dedicated to the home front as well.

Iowa and Iowans have roles in the museum’s display, if you know where to look.