This Veterans Day, Columbus has the perfect spot to honor and connect with the legacy of service—at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM).
The only museum in the country dedicated to celebrating veterans of all branches and eras, the NVMM stands out for its immersive, interactive approach. The museum doesn’t just tell war stories; it dives into the personal journeys of the people who served, offering a space for reflection, education, and a deeper understanding of their contributions.
The museum’s founder, the late Senator John Glenn, was a veteran himself.
He wanted a place that truly honored veterans’ lives, experiences, and sacrifices. Glenn’s vision was simple but powerful: we must remember more than just names and dates—we must preserve the human side of military service. That commitment is evident in the museum’s thoughtful design, innovative exhibits, and emotional storytelling.
On November 11 at 11 a.m., the NVMM will host a special Veterans Day ceremony.
Tickets are only $5, and admission is free for active duty service members and veterans. The event will feature Walter “Ted” Carter Jr., president of The Ohio State University, as keynote speaker. A former Navy Top Gun pilot and U.S. Naval Academy superintendent, President Carter exemplifies a life of service, both in and out of uniform. His dedication to fostering resilience and leadership in the next generation makes him a fitting voice for this year’s ceremony.
While the Veterans Day ceremony is a must-attend event, don’t overlook the museum’s many exhibits, each showcasing stories and artifacts that bring our veterans’ contributions to life.
One of the highlights is Remembered Light: Glass Fragments from World War II, a powerful and moving exhibition on display until January 26, 2025.
The exhibit was brought to life by U.S. Army Chaplain Frederick McDonald, who, while stationed in Europe during WWII, collected shards of stained glass from bombed-out churches and synagogues. These broken pieces, which McDonald carefully preserved, have since been transformed into new works of art, thanks to the vision of artist Armelle LeRoux and a team of 13 talented artists.
The exhibit tells a visual story of destruction, memory, and hope for peace, drawing visitors into a chronological journey that traces McDonald’s path across England, France, Belgium, and Germany.
Designed with contemplation in mind, the museum’s architecture complements the profound stories within.
A stunning concrete arch and spiral processional guide visitors toward a rooftop sanctuary, a quiet space to reflect and remember. Inside, exhibitions wind around the curved concrete walls, culminating in an interactive media experience at the museum’s core.
From the Great Hall with its views of the Scioto River to the Remembrance Gallery and Memorial Grove outside, every detail is a reminder of veterans’ resilience and unity, symbolized by the American Elms in the grove—a timeless place of rest and renewal.
As you celebrate Veterans Day this year, the National Veterans Memorial and Museum offers an unmatched opportunity to honor the service, strength, and sacrifices of our nation’s veterans. For more info, you can head over to nationalvmm.org.
Featured image via National Veterans Memorial and Museum.
