Learn about our state’s service members on Veterans Day

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - On Veterans Day, the Wisconsin Veterans Museum encourages people to visit and explore their exhibits to learn more about the state’s service members.

The Wisconsin Veterans Museum collection is home to thousands of stories of courage, commitment and sacrifice of veterans from every corner of the state dating back to the Civil War.

One temporary exhibit, called Souvenirs of Service, includes items collected from the Civil War era to modern-day. The objects range from artillery shells painted in WWI foxholes to Zippo lighters collected during the Vietnam era. Also featured are more than 400 photographs taken by service members during times of war and peace.

Jennifer Van Haaften, the Wisconsin Veterans Museum Assistant Director, says the objects help paint a picture of the people impacted by war.

“It’s really important for people to put themselves in these other folks’ shoes and think about why they decided to serve, what happened to them, and what happened to them after service,” said Van Haaften.

The 'Souvenirs of Service: Things They Kept' exhibit is on display at the Wisconsin Veterans... — The 'Souvenirs of Service: Things They Kept' exhibit is on display at the Wisconsin Veterans Museum.(WMTV)

The Wisconsin Veterans Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wisconsin Veterans Museum exhibit called Souvenirs of Service. — Wisconsin Veterans Museum exhibit called Souvenirs of Service.(Colton Molesky)

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