The United States Navy Memorial is charting a new course for museum interpretation and educational programming. Our exhibits tell compelling stories through interactive displays, priceless artifacts, oral histories, and creative visuals. Learn more about what's inside our Visitor Center below.
The American Sailor: Agile, Capable, and Talented
The American Sailor: Agile, Capable, and Talented tells the story of the evolution of the United States Navy. It portrays the U.S. Navy as a powerhouse with great agility to move humanity forward through action and serve those in crisis worldwide. This exhibit showcases the many accomplishments of service members who protect our national interests. Time and technology have certainly changed, but the sailor has not. Visitors will learn how sailors are steeped in tradition and bonded by common values.
Zumwalt: The Current that Brought the Navy to the Shores of the 20th Century
Zumwalt: The Current that Brought the Navy to the Shores of the 20th Century chronicles the life and legacy of one of the Navy’s most prolific Chief of Naval Operations. This exhibit tells Zumwalt’s story, from his key accomplishments to the gales he endured as a modernizing force in the United States Navy. His creative initiatives, ongoing pursuit of talent, and desire for fairness cemented his place in American naval history. It includes oral histories, personal keepsakes, family artifacts, and first-hand written accounts of Zumwalt’s life.
The Delbert D. Black National Chief’s Mess
The Delbert D. Black National Chief’s Mess tells the unique story and important role of the Navy Chief Petty Officer (CPO) and provides an opportunity for Chiefs around the Navy to stay connected. The National Chief's Mess was dedicated in September 2017 in memory of Delbert D. Black, the first Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON).
Sailors of the Year
An interactive display inside the National Chief’s Mess honors the U.S. Navy’s newest Sailors of the Year. These incredible Sailors from commands worldwide were nominated for their performance and meritoriously promoted to the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Hear about their accomplishments, unwavering dedication, and excitement for their new responsibilities.
Welcome Aboard is an overview of the Navy Memorial. Learn about the dynamic exhibits inside and the impressive features on the "Granite Sea" outside – with the iconic Lone Sailor statue as the centerpiece.
America's Navy, developed in partnership with the Chief of Naval Operations and Chief of Navy Information, features interactive touch screens with videos of current Navy missions and maps of deployments.
Navy After 9/11 highlights the American Global War On Terror (GWOT). Experience post-9/11 naval operations through visuals and sound effects, including video clips, uniforms, and priceless memorabilia.
The "Service and Sacrifice” statue by sculptor Susan Bahary honors military dogs and their handlers. It features Navy Petty Officer 1st Class John Douangdara and his war dog Bart. Sadly, both were lost in Afghanistan in 2011.