Press Release

The National World War II Museum attracts massive visitation for 65th anniversary of D-Day

New Orleans cultural attraction reaches major post-Katrina visitor milestone

NEW ORLEANS, LA., (June 10, 2009) – Over the June 6-7 weekend commemorating the 65th anniversary of D-Day, The National World War II Museum in New Orleans attracted nearly 5,000 visitors, smashing post-Katrina daily attendance records set in 2007 when the institution hosted a popular traveling exhibit on the life of Anne Frank.  The weekend attendance figures equaled the huge visitation numbers from the 60th D-Day anniversary weekend in 2004.

Reaching this visitor milestone is gratifying news for our Museum and a sign that we’re playing an important role in reviving the New Orleans economy and tourism industry,” said Dr. Gordon H. “Nick” Mueller, President and CEO. “But even more importantly, it’s rewarding to see that so many people all over the country are recognizing the incredible sacrifice made by the Greatest Generation who preserved our freedom and democracy.

The Museum continues to grow as well, with increasing national membership, and an ongoing $300 million capital expansion project. Upon completion, it will create a six-acre campus of exhibition pavilions illuminating the entire American experience during the World War II years. The expanded destination attraction is expected to draw more than 700,000-visitors-a-year when completed. The grand opening for the next phase of the expansion – a 4-D Victory Theater, the Stage Door Canteen entertainment venue, and The American Sector, A Chef John Besh Restaurant – will open on Friday, November 6, 2009.

The National World War II Museum tells the story of the American Experience in the war that changed the world - why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today. Dedicated in 2000 as The National D-Day Museum and now designated by Congress as America's National World War II Museum, it celebrates the American Spirit, the teamwork, optimism, courage and sacrifice of the men and women who fought on the battlefront and the Home Front. For more information, call 877-813-3329 or 504-527-6012 or visit www.nationalww2museum.org. Follow us on Twitter at WWIImuseum or visit our Facebook fan page.