The Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Museum

An Experience for Visitors of All Ages

The goal of the Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Museum and Library is to educate visitors about the phenomenal stories and linkages of the conflicts of the 20th Century and to generate respect for all veterans and active duty military personnel. The stories of World War I will show how it lead inevitably to World War II, the largest and most significant war in the history of mankind. The subsequent wars in Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Iraq and Afghanistan will also be exhibited.
In addition to both static and interactive experiences the Musuem will impart the important lessons and societal progressions that came from each deadly episode. Medical and technological advances between the wars will be part of the message. A leading example is the post WWII developments of the GI Bill which allowed Veterans to go to college, buy homes and create new communities and businesses all over the United States. The necessary advancement of women and minorities in the workforce, in the military and in society will be shown.

This beautiful Museum will welcome and educate students and other visitors of all generations by bringing them together to hear and share stories, ask questions and ultimately learn about the experiences of the soldiers and the citizens who supported their contributions and sacrifices.

Learn more about getting involved and being a part of something great. We look forward to hearing from you.

Santa Barbara Airport Marine Tribute

Artist rendering of the Tribute to be completed in 2013.

While Santa Barbara Airport was a dirt strip before World War II, it rapidly developed into an important and good sized base for training Marine Aviators who were then going to the war in the Pacific.  The planes that dominated the program were the Corsair among others.  Many well known Marine Pilots came to Santa Barbara and trained in Santa Barbara.  Joe Foss is only one name that is well remembered and one of our local heroes, Ken Linder, went on to become a member of the famous Black Sheep Squadron.

A German firm will construct and transport this amazing sculpture.

The Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Museum is building a one of a kind tribute to the Marines and the people who supported them.  It will consist of a glass sculpture, 22 ft. high and placed in front of the newly built Terminal.  The Tribute has been approved by all of the requisite decision making bodies.

Learn More, visit the Marine Tribute Page.