The National Museum of the Marine Corps: Education

The Education Department supports the mission of the Museum by developing educational materials and conducting education programs for teachers, students, and families to increase their awareness of the history of the Marine Corps. Since opening to the public in November 2006, over one million people have visited the Museum, including thousands of school groups, scout troops, and other youth organizations.

A field trip to the National Museum of the Marine Corps provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to experience United States history through the eyes of a Marine. In every American conflict, from the Revolutionary War to the Global War on Terror, Marines have always been the “first to fight for right and freedom”. By defending freedom no matter the cost, Marines have exemplified the qualities of honor, courage, and commitment since the Corps´ founding in 1775. Generations of courageous Marines have done so all over the world, not only “from the Halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli” but also to Iwo Jima, Chosin, Khe Sanh, and Fallujah. The Museum is a reminder that the freedom we enjoy in America has never been free. It is also a tribute to the determined and spirited men and women who today proudly claim the title of United States Marine.

The interactive nature of the Museum encourages students to use all of their senses to achieve an appreciation for the Marine Corps´ impact on American history. Students will experience historical events as though they were really there. In the World War II gallery, students board a landing craft in preparation for the assault on Iwo Jima. In the Korean War gallery, they face the frozen conditions at Toktong Pass. And In the Vietnam gallery students are airlifted by helicopter into a hot landing zone on Hill 881 South. Through these and other realistic experiences, a field trip to the National Museum of the Marine Corps brings to life what students only read about in their text books. It is certain to be a fun, educational, and memorable experience for students and teachers alike.