SPECIAL 9/11 EXHIBIT — NOW OPEN AT THE MUSEUM

801 Grand Avenue, Suite 102
San Luis Obispo, CA

Open 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
Wednesday – Saturday
Free Admission

“On 9/11, I remember…”

Reflections 25 Years Later

This year marks the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. The Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum invites our community to remember, reflect and help preserve the stories of a day that changed America.

Our new special exhibit, “On 9/11, I remember…”, is now open, presenting the events of September 11 and the lasting impact they had on our nation, our military and generations of veterans and their families.

Nearly everyone old enough to remember 9/11 has a story. Some watched the events unfold on television. Others heard the news while drinking their morning coffee, driving to work, sitting in a classroom or through a telephone call from someone they loved. For military members, veterans, and their families, the consequences of that day continued for years through service and sacrifice.

Many Americans felt a renewed sense of patriotism after the attacks and were inspired to enlist and do their part to protect the country, knowing their service could send them into harm’s way. This “9/11 generation” went on to serve and deploy to Afghanistan, Iraq and other locations during the long conflicts that followed.

The special exhibit was curated by Museum volunteer Steve David in recognition of the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. It was designed to create a place where Central Coast community members and visitors can learn about the events surrounding September 11, remember those who were lost and reflect on the lasting effects of that day. The exhibit was inspired in part by the powerful reflections shared by retired Navy officer John Krause, who visited San Luis Obispo last year as the 2025 keynote speaker at the museum’s annual Veterans Day ceremony.

WE INVITE YOU TO ADD YOUR REFLECTION FROM 9/11

Where were you when you first heard the news?
What do you remember most?
What would you want future generations to know?

In connection to this special exhibit, visitors to the museum are invited to add their memories to our Community Reflection Journal, creating a collective record of how September 11 was experienced and remembered here on the Central Coast.

Children and younger generations who do not personally remember 9/11 are also encouraged to participate by sharing what September 11 means to them today through words or artwork.

When you come into the museum to walk through our “On 9/11, I remember…” exhibit please take a few minutes to add your story to the Community Reflection Journal. If you are not able to attend in person, we welcome you to mail your handwritten entry or email to ccvmm.programs@gmail.com and it will be added.

HONORING THE 9/11 GENERATION

Through our Veteran History Program, the Museum has preserved more than 500 veterans’ stories. We especially encourage post-9/11 veterans to contact us about recording their own history.

Every veteran has a story. Every story matters. Contact the Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum to record your story, a free service we provide. Help us preserve our nation’s record of veteran experiences. 

VISIT • REMEMBER • REFLECT

“On 9/11, I remember…: Reflections 25 Years Later”
On display now through early October

Schools, veterans’ organizations, civic groups and other groups may also arrange special tours.

(805) 543-1763
vetmuseum.org

SUPPORT THE MUSEUM

The Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit operated entirely by volunteers and supported by our community.

We are looking for volunteers and community members interested in getting involved with the Museum.

Our museum is powered by volunteers who believe in honoring our veterans, preserving their stories, and keeping local military history alive for future generations.

As we look to the future, we’re seeking new volunteers and board members from the Central Coast who want to help keep this important community resource going strong.

Whether you have a few hours to volunteer, skills or experience you’d like to share, or an interest in serving on our Board of Directors, there are many ways to make a difference. You don’t need to be a veteran or a history expert—just someone who cares about our mission and wants to contribute.

We especially need community members willing to step forward, get involved, help plan our Memorial Day, Veterans Day and other events, and help carry the museum into its next chapter.
Interested in volunteering or learning more about board service? Please reach out to us. We’d love to hear from you!

Help us continue honoring those who served by helping preserve their stories for generations to come.

Call (805) 543-1763 or visit vetmuseum.org to learn more.