ARLINGTON, Texas — A dozen living recipients of the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military award, gathered Wednesday to commemorate the opening of the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas. The museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of more than 3,500 service members who have earned the prestigious honor since the Civil War.
The 100,000-square-foot facility is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of those awarded the nation’s highest military honor. Since the Civil War, fewer than 4,000 of the 40 million Americans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces have received the award. Of those recipients, only 61 are still living.
Exhibits feature a range of items, including a high school jacket with a military service pin, X-rays documenting battlefield injuries and recoveries, and a handwritten note from a mother seeking information about her wounded son.
The exhibit hall itself is a symbolic structure, hovering 40 feet above the ground and supported by five pillars representing the five branches of the U.S. military.
The museum was made possible by nearly $300 million in donations, with the Jones family contributing the first $20 million.
Celebration and Notable Guests
A highlight of the event was the appearance of 32 Medal of Honor recipients, who walked the red carpet ahead of the museum’s official opening. Local, state, and national leaders attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“These are the best of America — people who risked everything, some giving their lives, to protect our way of life,” said Senator John Cornyn.
The opening event included a performance of “God Bless America” by country music singer Lee Greenwood and was emceed by Savannah Guthrie, co-anchor of NBC’s Today Show.
Actor Gary Sinise, known for his support of veterans, was also among the attendees.
“We need our young people to understand character, perseverance, and selflessness,” Sinise said.
The event featured appearances from Dallas Cowboys players and other public figures.
A Lasting Legacy
The National Medal of Honor Museum stands as a testament to those who risked — and in many cases, gave — their lives to protect the nation. By sharing the stories behind the medals, the museum aims to instill values of courage, perseverance, and selflessness in future generations.
With the grand opening marking a significant milestone, the museum is poised to serve as a lasting reminder of the sacrifices made by ordinary individuals who performed extraordinary acts.
