The camera’s use of chemistry and mechanics married with the human perspective created one of the most powerful tools of war and art—and an invaluable resource for recording the memory of World War II. By demonstrating the technology of the camera, using dramatic imagery and footage of everything from combat to the ordinary life of the US Navy sailor, The Real Image of War will probe the supposed objectivity of documentary photography and examine the motives of the men behind the camera who created a visual record of the war in the Pacific. The Real Image of War will be on display March 17, 2022 – January 3, 2023 in the Senator John Alario, Jr. Special Exhibit Hall.

In commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, Infamy: Pearl Harbor Remembered reflects on the devastating events of December 7, 1941. By spurring the US Congress to declare war on Japan and serving as a rallying cry for the US war effort, the attack on Pearl Harbor has become known as a catalyst for America’s entry into World War II—and focal point when considering their actions during the war.

The special exhibit Ghost Army: The Combat Con Artists of World War II, on view in the Hall of Democracy’s Senator John Alario, Jr. Special Exhibition Hall from March 5 to January 31, 2021, and curated by the Museum’s James Linn, tells the story of the 23rd and their deception operations across Europe through featured artifacts such as artwork, uniforms, an inflatable tank, and more.