MOBILIZING TO BUILD A WORLD-CLASS MUSEUM
Projected Completion Date: Spring of 2026
Ultimately, the quality and character of the education classrooms, exhibit galleries and public programming rests with everyday Minnesotans who see the value of investing in a future that is as bright as our past. Online Donation
The names of these donors, or donations made in memory of others, will be prominently displayed upon entry into this new 40,000 square foot facility.
Throughout the design and construction phase, the Museum will host online gatherings, via Zoom, to discuss interpretation, inclusion and overall themes. Email Sign-up to receive invites
If you’d like to assist in other ways including volunteer opportunities, please email us. We are seeking to significantly bolster our collection of artifacts related to the Global War on Terrorism. A list of other items we are seeking (and those we are not) is available here.
If you have questions or comments, please contact Randal Dietrich, Executive Director
When speaking with many audiences throughout my 39-year military career, I have often tried to highlight the importance of support from the American public. I believe it is an essential motivational ingredient for our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen. Fortunately, despite politics and other opinions, the American people have sustained this support for our uniformed men and women as they have done the Nation’s work in many locations. I saw it prominently during my service in Afghanistan and Iraq, and I continue to see it after my return to Minnesota following my 2019 retirement. It is powerful and, perhaps more than anything else, sends an unambiguous signal to our men and women that we value their efforts.
This support is, of course, essential during times of conflict --- but I would also highlight that this support for our veterans and their families is equally important as they return to our communities. Return to our communities is often a difficult transition --- mainly when our Veterans come with the visible and invisible scars of combat. There is a multitude of ways to address these challenges. One fundamental and tangible way is through public recognition and honor to their service.
I am writing to ask for your financial support for an initiative to recognize our Minnesota Veterans with a world-class museum worthy of their service and sacrifice.
Your support will help us realize this dream of properly honoring generations of Minnesota Veterans for their service to our State and our Nation.
With deepest respect.
General Joseph Votel
General Joseph Votel
The Minnesota Commanders’ Task Force is comprised of nine congressionally chartered veterans service organizations. As the elected leaders of these respective organizations, we appreciate their decision to make funding for a new museum a top legislative priority.
