The World War II History Center is a museum and research library dedicated to World War II.  The center includes information about the entire war on the European, Pacific and Home Fronts, and how the entire country pulled together to help win the war.  Not only does the center feature the American perspective, but it also highlights the efforts of the Allies and the Axis alike.  The purpose is to provide one of the most comprehensive facilities on the subject of World War II in the United States, and potentially the world.

Vision Statement

To remember a generation, to honor their sacrifices, and to educate future generations. 

Mission Statement

The mission of the World War II History Center Foundation is to facilitate a museum and resource facility dedicated to the history of the World War II era.  The center will strive to educate all generations about the reasons for the war and the profound impact WWII had on the world.

The Importance of World War II 

The World War II era was a defining era for the United States , as well as the world.  

It was the last time that America was united with one goal - good overcoming evil.  

WWII was the largest war in human history, resulting in over 50,000,000 deaths world-wide.

Over 20,000,000 men and women served in America's Armed Forces the largest number to serve at one time.

Over 400,000 Americans died protecting the freedoms the United States were founded on.  

The world changed before, during and after the war.  Politics, news coverage, ethnic tolerance, women's equality, advancements in technology, military strategies, foreign policies and governments. 

World War II on All Fronts

            There are many museums in the United States that touch on World War II, focusing on a unit, a battle, or a region of the war.  This museum will be one of the few that will cover the entire war, on the European and Pacific fronts, as well as the home front.  The resource center will contain information on all aspects of the war and will be available through the use of a computer database accessible for free on the internet.

Kansas: Why, Where, and When?

          Kansas has its own unique history tied to the World War II era.  The Boeing plant in Wichita built B-29 bombers for the Pacific Theater.  13 prisoner of war camps were located in Kansas, housing German and Italian POWs.   There were several air bases in Kansas including Topeka, Hutchinson and Winfield.  A Red Cross and United Service Organization (USO) canteen was located in Newton at the railroad depot, serving over 2,000,000 service men and women.  Lastly, the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces, Dwight D. Eisenhower's childhood home is located in Abilene.

   For travelers, Kansas is centrally located fro travel through the U.S. with two major interstates, 1-70 and 1-135 connecting at Salina.  The Kansas Turnpike, I-35,  offers a direct route from Kansas City to Wichita. 

   Tentative plans include the Wichita Metro area a a potential site of the World War II History Center.  Along with the other cultural and recreational options the Wichita Metro area offers, the World War II History Center will add yet another possible venue to attract tourists from around the country.

    World War II veterans are dying at a rate of 1,700 per day.  Dying with them are their memories, their experiences, and their patriotism which saw this country through some of its most difficult times.   

Goals

To be a valued contributor of cultural opportunities for the Wichita Metro area, as well as the surrounding communities. 

To partner with area schools and colleges offering research opportunities, outreach programs, K-12 educational programs tied to Kansas State Standards, adult lecture series, summer programs, and internships. 

To be a nationally recognized, regional-level museum and resource center, offering research capabilities, interactive exhibits and educational programs.

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