The National Medal of Honor Museum, located in Arlington’s vibrant entertainment district, is set to officially welcome visitors on Tuesday, showcasing a vast 100,000-square-foot facility dedicated to honoring recipients of the nation’s highest military decoration.

Designed to inspire and celebrate the human spirit, this architectural landmark promises to attract millions of visitors annually.

Inside the Museum: Exhibits and Experiences

As guests enter the museum, they are instantly drawn to the “Ring of Valor,” a poignant display featuring the names of all 3,528 Medal of Honor recipients, underscoring the solemnity and significance of this military recognition.

Moving to the upper levels, the first exhibit encountered is titled “Moments of Action,” which immerses visitors in the intense environments of historic battlefields where these brave individuals were honored for their valor.

The “Rails to Rotors” Exhibit

After experiencing the Ring of Valor, guests will have the opportunity to explore the “Rails to Rotors” exhibit, which showcases the evolution of military equipment and vehicles utilized throughout history. A highlight within this space is a Vietnam-era Huey helicopter, famously employed during “dustoff” missions, which are credited with saving countless lives during the Vietnam War.

“They were basically helicopter ambulances,” stated Greg Waters, the museum’s director of curatorial arts. “When things went bad, they would send out the call for dustoff, and that’s when General Brady would go out and rescue whoever needed rescuing.”

“More Than a Medal” Exhibit

Visitors will also encounter the expansive “More Than a Medal” exhibit, which humanizes the award by displaying personal artifacts and memorabilia belonging to Medal of Honor recipients.

“That’s what this place is,” said Chris Cassidy, museum President and CEO. “It’s a place for the stories of those Medal of Honor recipients.”

This exhibit allows guests to view actual medals on loan to the museum, with Waters noting that, “The Medals of Honor themselves are the crown jewel of our collection.” An innovative interactive feature also enables visitors to engage with virtual recordings of Medal of Honor recipients, posing questions and receiving authentic responses through advanced AI technology.

Architectural Features

The building itself integrates five pillars, symbolizing each branch of the U.S. armed forces. As night falls, a dynamic beam of light—referred to as a “perpetual light”—illuminates the sky, serving as a reminder that the stories of these courageous individuals will never fade.

Local Significance

The selection of Arlington as the museum’s home was a competitive process, with over 20 cities vying to host this prestigious institution. Ultimately, its central location was a decisive factor, providing easier access for visitors from across the nation.