Contrary to Winston Churchill's belief that Italy was the "soft underbelly" of Axis-dominated Europe, the Allied campaign in Italy was a long and bloody undertaking.
Once a bombing range, one Hawaiian island is on the long road back.
Woody Williams, a veteran of several campaigns with the 3rd Marine Division, landed on Iwo Jima in the days after D-Day. On February 23, 1945, Woody acted with "conspicuous gallantry" in eliminating Japanese pillboxes on Iwo Jima with his flame thrower. For his actions that day, Woody was awarded the Medal of Honor.
A tribute to the leadership of President Franklin D. Roosevelt at The National WWII Museum.
At the end of the war, more than 12,000 American POWs were scattered in camps across the Pacific in desperate shape. From August 30-September 20, 1945, in Operation Swift Mercy, B-17s and B-29s flew 1,000 missions and dropped 4,500 tons of supplies to American troops no longer prisoner, but still trapped.
The National WWII Museum joins fellow Smithsonian affiliates in showcasing the history and culture of our community!
The National WWII Museum’s most popular tour provides an in-depth itinerary exploring America’s most famous WWII battle. Offering a full week of touring in Normandy at an incredible price, this unforgettable tour offers great value and features top guides, upscale accommodations in prime locations, comprehensive dining, and exclusive access to sites unseen on other programs.
In commemoration of the US Coast Guard’s 232nd birthday on Thursday, August 4, 2022, all active-duty members, reserve members, retirees, and veterans of the Coast Guard are admitted FREE for the day to The National WWII Museum’s galleries.