Online Exhibits
Iwo Jima Purple Hearts: Common Men, Uncommon Valor
In the Highest Tradition--WWII Medal of Honor Art: Paintings by Col Charles H. Waterhouse, USMCR (Ret)
In commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII, we are featuring the artwork of U.S. Marine artist, Col Charles H. Waterhouse. Included in this online exhibition are a selection of paintings and portraits of WWII Medal of Honor recipients. Online visitors can view more artwork by Waterhouse on our Google Arts and Culture site.
A Tribute in Silver
Silver objects have long been representative of respect, commemoration, and triumph. Within the Marine Corps, the tradition of giving commemorative silver objects as tributes of admiration and achievement has a long history and was particularly popular during the early 20th century. It is from this era, spanning roughly 1900 to 1960, that the National Museum of the Marine Corps amassed a large portion of its collection of silver tribute pieces, many of which are shared here. These silver objects represent various forms of tribute, including those that commemorate personal and professional achievement, as well as sporting victories. Many familiar names appear on these objects, such as Archibald Henderson, Lewis “Chesty” Puller, Smedley Butler, John Philip Sousa, Charles Heywood, and Prince Edward, HRH the Prince of Wales. This collection of silver objects displays a strong tradition of achievement and excellence in the Marine Corps that continues today.
