A Welcome Letter

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM/A LIVING ENTITY

It is an honor to be elected President of the National Museum of American Jewish Military History in this, the 50th year of our being chartered by the Congress of the United States.

The original view of the Museum was that there was a past/J.W.V., a present/ J.W.V. and a future/ the museum, i.e., "The National Shrine to the Jewish War Dead."

Gradually the museum has evolved and, hopefully, it will continue to evolve as a living entity.

Yes, it must be a showcase and depository for our past. But also, it must be an outreach to the non-Jewish and Jewish Communities; especially to the Jewish service people of our present and our future.

The Museum will provide, and is the only source capable of showing how the American Jew fought in past wars; is currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan; and will protect this country in future conflicts. It defines how the American Jew has been integrated into the military service, and has, and will continue to reach the heights of the leadership of said service. Finally, it will teach others what J.W.V. does for veterans - regardless of race or creed.

We (J.W.V. and the Museum) are the voice of the Jewish Community in the United States Military; and we (J.W.V. and the Museum) are the voice of the United States military in the Jewish Community.

This is our message. But how do we get it across? Our leadership has determined that one way to bring this about is though the creation of a "Permanent, Modern, Interactive" Exhibit.

With your support and G-d's will a permanent, modern, interactive exhibit will be established at The National Museum, and will function as an important conduit for having our voices heard.

Thank you again for your trust.

David L. Magidson
PNC President