"My 3 years of active duty in the Navy serving on board a destroyer (U.S.S. Blandy, DD-943) and outfitting PT boats for Vietnam in the Philadelphia Shipyard left an indelible imprint on my life. It put me, a shy youngster, in a position of leadership at the age of only 22. It introduced me to role models whose characters influenced my own to this very day. It taught me the values of teamwork, a commitment to be the best, and recognizing there was much I could and should learn from others. I would never have become the person I became if it were not for my service in the Navy."

We continue to honor veterans this month with free general admission to the museum with military ID, now through November 30. Learn more here.