National World War II Museum

National World War II Museum Review

The brainchild of historian and writer Dr. Stephen Ambrose, who taught for many years at the University of New Orleans until his death in 2002, this moving, well-executed examination of World War II covers far more ground than simply D-Day. The seminal moments are re-created through propaganda posters and radio clips from the period; biographical sketches of the military personnel involved; a number of short documentary films (including an especially emotional film on the Holocaust featuring interviews with survivors); and collections of weapons, personal items, and other artifacts from the war. The exhibits occupy a series of galleries spread through the interior of a huge warehouse space. One spotlighted exhibit, in a large, open portion of the warehouse near the entrance, is a replica of the Higgins boat troop landing craft, which were manufactured in New Orleans. In 2009 the museum unveiled the first phase of its $300 million expansion, which will eventually quadruple the size of the facility. Across the street from the current facility, there's a 4-D theater experience produced by Tom Hanks and a canteen featuring the food of celebrity chef John Besh. This is the first of six new pavilions proposed for the expanded campus, due to be completed in 2015. The next, a large exhibition space entitled The United States Freedom Pavilion: Land, Sea and Air, honoring all service branches and including a restored Boeing B-17 and an immersive submarine experience, is slated to open in Fall 2012. Check the Web site for updates on the expansion and a list of current movies, lectures, events, and programs.