During a hearing on Wednesday, U.S. Rep. Steve Stivers (R-OH) urged the House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs to support legislation that would nationally designate a new veterans museum and memorial being built in downtown Columbus.
The National Veterans Memorial and Museum Act, H.R. 1900, introduced by Stivers in April, seeks to create the only public museum in the United States that is dedicated solely to sharing the experiences of veterans of all eras, conflicts, and branches of service. The memorial and museum will provide visitors with a view of American history only known through a veteran’s eyes, according to the bill, which Stivers introduced with U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-OH).
“This will serve as an incredible landmark where we can honor and remember all of our nation’s veterans,” Stivers said. “I am proud to work with Representative Beatty and the countless community leaders who understand the importance of this museum to our veterans, their families, and our entire nation.”
Efforts to create the National Veterans Memorial and Museum was initiated in 2013 by former NASA astronaut and Ohio Sen. John Glenn. Though it was first intended to be a testament to the 900,000 veterans living in Ohio, the scope of the project was expanded to create a richer, collective story.
“This museum will honor, connect, inspire and educate all Americans about the selfless service and sacrifice of our nation’s more than 40 million veterans,” Beatty said.
Overseen by the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation, the $75 million facility is fully funded and scheduled for a grand opening in the summer of 2018. The new facility will be constructed on the site of the Franklin County Veterans Memorial.