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The votes are in, and we’re thrilled to share that the National Medal of Honor Museum has been named the #1 Best New Museum in America in the USA TODAY 10BEST 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards!

This honor belongs to everyone who voted, visited, and believed in our mission.

Thank you for helping us share powerful stories that inspire America.

What a night! History was made.

March 22, 2025 the National Medal of Honor Museum Grand Opening.

Thank you to all who have joined us on our Mission to Inspire America, preserving the legacies of our nation’s Medal of Honor Recipients.

In an evening filled with fireworks, nothing shone brighter than the Medal of Honor Recipients. It is because of their service and sacrifice that we can gather for celebrations like these. We are so proud to open our doors and share their stories of courage, commitment and selflessness with the nation.

We’ve got your Saturday night plans covered.

Join us this Saturday evening, May 16, for a free screening of American Heart in WWI—a film experience that brings to life the stories, voices, and shared experiences of Americans during the First World War.

Before the film, join Greg Waters for Conversations with a Curator and explore the history, context, and human stories behind what you’ll see on screen.

Reserve your free seat and tickets for Conversations with a Curator at the link in our bio.

By his own count, Eddie Rickenbacker survived 135 brushes with death.

From early accidents as a child to the racetracks where he first pushed the limits of speed to combat in the air and even days adrift at sea, his life was shaped by moments when the outcome was never certain.

His story isn’t defined by one moment, but by how he showed up in all of them.

Explore Edward Rickenbacker: A Life at Full Throttle, open and free to the public for a limited time at the National Medal of Honor Museum.
Plan your visit at https://bit.ly/4d51Onp

By his own count, Eddie Rickenbacker survived 135 brushes with death.

From early accidents as a child to the racetracks where he first pushed the limits of speed to combat in the air and even days adrift at sea, his life was shaped by moments when the outcome was never certain.

His story isn’t defined by one moment, but by how he showed up in all of them.

Explore Edward Rickenbacker: A Life at Full Throttle, open and free to the public for a limited time at the National Medal of Honor Museum.
Plan your visit at https://bit.ly/4d51Onp

By his own count, Eddie Rickenbacker survived 135 brushes with death.

From early accidents as a child to the racetracks where he first pushed the limits of speed to combat in the air and even days adrift at sea, his life was shaped by moments when the outcome was never certain.

His story isn’t defined by one moment, but by how he showed up in all of them.

Explore Edward Rickenbacker: A Life at Full Throttle, open and free to the public for a limited time at the National Medal of Honor Museum.
Plan your visit at https://bit.ly/4d51Onp

Many people don’t realize there are three distinct Medal of Honor designs—one for each branch of service (Marines and Coast Guard get the Navy design).

In 1904, Tennessean and Medal of Honor Recipient George Gillespie Jr. led the redesign of the Army Medal—shaping the version still awarded today.

At the National Medal of Honor Museum, you can see how each design has evolved—and the stories behind them.

There are 39 Recipients who were born in Tennessee—not a surprise as this “Volunteer State” has earned a reputation for stepping up to serve.

Do you have a connection to Tennessee? Share it with us below!

Many people don’t realize there are three distinct Medal of Honor designs—one for each branch of service (Marines and Coast Guard get the Navy design).

In 1904, Tennessean and Medal of Honor Recipient George Gillespie Jr. led the redesign of the Army Medal—shaping the version still awarded today.

At the National Medal of Honor Museum, you can see how each design has evolved—and the stories behind them.

There are 39 Recipients who were born in Tennessee—not a surprise as this “Volunteer State” has earned a reputation for stepping up to serve.

Do you have a connection to Tennessee? Share it with us below!

Many people don’t realize there are three distinct Medal of Honor designs—one for each branch of service (Marines and Coast Guard get the Navy design).

In 1904, Tennessean and Medal of Honor Recipient George Gillespie Jr. led the redesign of the Army Medal—shaping the version still awarded today.

At the National Medal of Honor Museum, you can see how each design has evolved—and the stories behind them.

There are 39 Recipients who were born in Tennessee—not a surprise as this “Volunteer State” has earned a reputation for stepping up to serve.

Do you have a connection to Tennessee? Share it with us below!

Many people don’t realize there are three distinct Medal of Honor designs—one for each branch of service (Marines and Coast Guard get the Navy design).

In 1904, Tennessean and Medal of Honor Recipient George Gillespie Jr. led the redesign of the Army Medal—shaping the version still awarded today.

At the National Medal of Honor Museum, you can see how each design has evolved—and the stories behind them.

There are 39 Recipients who were born in Tennessee—not a surprise as this “Volunteer State” has earned a reputation for stepping up to serve.

Do you have a connection to Tennessee? Share it with us below!

This Mother’s Day, spend time together in a way that lasts a little longer.

Between brunch, flowers, and everything else the day may bring, the Museum offers a chance to slow down, walk through stories together, and make time for each other.

Stories have a way of bringing people together—whether shared on a lap or experienced side by side—opening up conversations across generations and connecting our country’s history with our own.

Make a day of it: spend the afternoon exploring the Museum, take time to connect over lunch at the café, and stop by the gift shop to remember the day together before heading home.

And while it may not be how you’ve spent Mother’s Day before, it’s a day you won’t rush—and one you’ll remember long after you leave.

Plan your visit today.

This Mother’s Day, spend time together in a way that lasts a little longer.

Between brunch, flowers, and everything else the day may bring, the Museum offers a chance to slow down, walk through stories together, and make time for each other.

Stories have a way of bringing people together—whether shared on a lap or experienced side by side—opening up conversations across generations and connecting our country’s history with our own.

Make a day of it: spend the afternoon exploring the Museum, take time to connect over lunch at the café, and stop by the gift shop to remember the day together before heading home.

And while it may not be how you’ve spent Mother’s Day before, it’s a day you won’t rush—and one you’ll remember long after you leave.

Plan your visit today.

Connections can be made in unexpected ways.

Miranda, an Honor Guide, shares the story behind a football helmet from Miyamura High School, named for Medal of Honor Recipient Hiroshi Miyamura, and recalls a guest who found a connection of their own.

Plan your visit to find yours.

Bruno Orig grew up in Honolulu in a family where service was a shared commitment. His father, stepfather, and brothers all served in the U.S. Army across multiple conflicts. At 11 years old, he witnessed the attack on Pearl Harbor, an experience that would stay with him as he chose his own path.

After enlisting in 1949, Orig was sent to Korea as a light weapons infantryman. On February 15, 1951, near Chipyong-ni, he moved through active fire to administer aid to wounded Soldiers and helped carry them to safety. When a machine-gun crew was nearly wiped out, he stepped forward to take the position, delivering sustained fire that allowed a friendly platoon to withdraw without a single casualty. He remained at his post as the enemy overran the position, continuing to hold the line.

He was later found beside his weapon.

Bruno Orig’s story reflects both individual action and a family legacy of service that continued across generations.

In May, we recognize Military Appreciation Month, a time to reflect on service across generations. This month, and every month, we recognize and appreciate all who have served, and those who continue to serve today.

The most meaningful moments at the Museum are often the ones shared together.

A Museum Membership is more than a gift — it’s an invitation to return, explore together, and experience stories that stay with you long after the visit ends.

From immersive exhibits to moments that spark curiosity across generations, every visit offers something new to experience together.

During a season filled with celebrations, milestones, and time spent together, it’s a thoughtful way to share an experience that lasts beyond a single day.

Explore family membership options and plan your next visit at the link in our bio.

The @mohmuseum, designed by the late Rafael Vinoly, has officially been named one of the World’s Most Beautiful Museums for 2026 by @prixversailles!

Of the seven institutions honored worldwide, the National Medal of Honor Museum was the only one chosen in the Western Hemisphere.

This is a testament to the excellence and hard work of @rva_ny and @linebeckgroup. Each design element reveals the strength, unity, and purpose of the stories within the Museum.

What an incredible honor!

The @mohmuseum, designed by the late Rafael Vinoly, has officially been named one of the World’s Most Beautiful Museums for 2026 by @prixversailles!

Of the seven institutions honored worldwide, the National Medal of Honor Museum was the only one chosen in the Western Hemisphere.

This is a testament to the excellence and hard work of @rva_ny and @linebeckgroup. Each design element reveals the strength, unity, and purpose of the stories within the Museum.

What an incredible honor!

The @mohmuseum, designed by the late Rafael Vinoly, has officially been named one of the World’s Most Beautiful Museums for 2026 by @prixversailles!

Of the seven institutions honored worldwide, the National Medal of Honor Museum was the only one chosen in the Western Hemisphere.

This is a testament to the excellence and hard work of @rva_ny and @linebeckgroup. Each design element reveals the strength, unity, and purpose of the stories within the Museum.

What an incredible honor!

Medal of Honor History in Vermont

At 11 years old, Willie Johnston was already serving.

As a drummer with a Vermont regiment during the Civil War, his role looked different but his commitment did not. He remains the youngest Medal of Honor Recipient.

His story is one of many that reflect the different ways service has taken shape throughout history.

Have you heard of other young individuals connected to Medal of Honor history?

Medal of Honor History in Vermont

At 11 years old, Willie Johnston was already serving.

As a drummer with a Vermont regiment during the Civil War, his role looked different but his commitment did not. He remains the youngest Medal of Honor Recipient.

His story is one of many that reflect the different ways service has taken shape throughout history.

Have you heard of other young individuals connected to Medal of Honor history?

The National Medal of Honor Museum has been named one of the World’s Most Beautiful Museums for 2026 by @prixversailles—a global architecture and design award recognizing excellence at the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and cultural impact.

The Museum is one of just seven institutions honored worldwide—and the only one in the Western Hemisphere.

At the National Medal of Honor Museum, design is inseparable from its mission: to inspire generations of Americans through stories of ordinary individuals who did extraordinary things in service to others. Lifted above the ground and supported by five columns—each representing a branch of service—the Museum’s design reflects the strength, unity, and purpose behind the stories it holds.

We’re honored by this recognition, and grateful to @linbeckgroup and @rva_ny for helping bring this vision to life.