The National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas, is set to open its doors to the public on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. This significant event not only marks three years of construction but also promises to inspire visitors by honoring the more than 3,500 service members who have received the nation’s highest military award. The opening day ceremony, scheduled for 9:30 a.m., will feature a range of immersive exhibits designed to celebrate valor and sacrifice.
In a bittersweet twist, the anticipation surrounding this grand opening is dampened by controversy. Lori Longfritz, the sister of Medal of Honor recipient Master Sgt. John Chapman, has publicly expressed her anger over perceived discrepancies in how the museum presents her brother’s story compared to those of other recipients. Chapman earned a posthumous Medal of Honor in 2018 for his heroic actions during the Battle of Takur Ghar in Afghanistan, where he saved more than 20 service members despite sustaining severe injuries.
According to Longfritz, she believed her brother would receive a dedicated exhibit showcasing his extraordinary acts on March 4, 2002, but the museum declared otherwise. "There was never going to be a John Chapman exhibit," one former museum employee said, noting that due to the sheer number of recipients, it is impossible to display every story in depth.
The museum, located near popular attractions like AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field, aims to provide an educational experience for veterans and civilians alike. Patrick Brady Hall, a flexible event space within the museum, has already booked 80 events for the year. The Griffin Institute’s educational program anticipates bringing nearly 8,000 students to the museum, fostering understanding of the valor represented by the Medal of Honor.
Master Sgt. John Chapman’s citation recounts his courageous act of engaging enemy fire to protect his fellow soldiers. "Without regard for his own safety, Sergeant Chapman immediately engaged," the citation states, highlighting his bravery throughout the battle.
Despite his significant contributions, Longfritz feels that the museum has neglected her brother’s legacy. "I didn't want this, but I'm not going anywhere now," she declared, reflecting her determination to ensure that Chapman’s heroics are fully recognized.
Public response to the lack of a distinct exhibit for Chapman has been overwhelmingly supportive of Longfritz, evidenced by more than 25,000 signatures on a petition demanding that he receive a dedicated display at the museum. Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna has also joined the cause, stating, "It's a blatant disrespect for someone who lost their life serving this country and that wrong needs to be corrected immediately." She questions whether politics influenced the decision, noting that some involved in the planning process have significant ties to the Navy SEAL community.
In its defense, the museum maintains that it honors all Medal of Honor recipients with the dignity they deserve and that Chapman's story is still highlighted among the most significant within the exhibits, even if he doesn’t have his own space.
The museum's grand opening is expected to be a momentous occasion for Arlington, as it not only showcases individual valor but also fosters a broader understanding of the principles upheld by all who served. The design of the museum reflects the gravity of the Medal of Honor, supported by pillars representing the five branches of military service. As visitors enter through the Rotunda of Honor, they are welcomed by the names of Medal of Honor recipients illuminated as a perpetual tribute.
Critics, however, argue that honoring individual stories is essential for recognizing the sacrifices made. Longfritz insists that Chapman’s narrative deserves the spotlight, depicting the real-life implications of valor in life-and-death situations. Her persistence highlights the emotional weight carried by families of service members who made the ultimate sacrifice.
As the National Medal of Honor Museum prepares to debut, many look forward to exploring its exhibits, including the impressive "Rails to Rotors" display featuring a Vietnam-era Huey helicopter. Visitors will gain access to immersive experiences that explore the battlefield actions of these remarkable individuals, providing greater context to the sacrifices underpinning each Medal of Honor awarded.
The importance of honoring, educating, and remembering those who served through history cannot be overstated. The National Medal of Honor Museum strives to embody these values throughout its exhibits, drawing attention to what it means to serve a cause greater than oneself.
As opening day arrives, the dual narratives of celebration and controversy will undoubtedly shape the experience of visitors. The unfolding story of Master Sgt. John Chapman, a man whose heroics should inspire generations to come, continues to loom large over this remarkable institution as it embraces the collective valor of America’s heroes.
In many ways, this museum isn’t just about the past – it’s also about the future, serving as a reminder of the spirit of service that should persist well beyond the battlefields.
