National Museum of the AMERICAN SAILOR Great Lakes / North Chicago, Illinois

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1 National Museum of the AMERICAN SAILOR Great Lakes / North Chicago, Illinois

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3 National Museum of the AMERICAN SAILOR Great Lakes / North Chicago, Illinois

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5 Vision Statement Naval History and Heritage Command In late 2013, the Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC) embarked on an exciting journey to reinterpret and rebrand four of its museums. By giving each museum a stronger national presence, NHHC aims to reinforce the rich heritage and legacy of the Navy communities that each institution represents. This document articulates the process by which an engaged group of Navy and community stakeholders envisions the National Museum of the American Sailor. National Museum of the American Sailor The National Museum of the American Sailor (NMAS) celebrates the history of the United States Navy s enlisted Sailor. This museum honors the enlisted Sailor s dedication, patriotism and sacrifice in the protection of the United States since the founding of the republic to the present day and beyond. NMAS seeks to make this history exciting and relevant to local, regional and national visitors by: Serving as a vital link to the training process for all Navy recruits and connecting visitors to the Navy s long tradition of Honor, Courage, and Commitment Enriching the public s appreciation and understanding of the significance of the American Sailor Exhibiting and preserving U.S. naval history and its continuing legacy in ways that are accurate, compelling, and engaging Collecting significant artifacts that tell the story of the enlisted Sailor Hosting naval events and activities that promote the importance of our naval heritage to the greater community Developing an archival system through the creation of strategies and policies for the selection and acquisition of historical and interpretive materials Implementing innovative and inspirational educational programs for visitors of all ages

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7 CONTENTS Section One INTRODUCTION & HISTORY 1.1 WHY A NEW VISION? EXISTING SITE & FACILITY EXISTING EXHIBITS... 4 Section Two A FUTURE MUSEUM 2.1 PROPOSED SITE & FACILITY... 6 Section Three PRELIMINARY EXHIBIT CONCEPTS 3.1 INTRODUCTION TO TODAY S NAVY FROM CIVILIAN TO SAILOR MANNING THE MODERN NAVY Section Four CHARTING THE COURSE 4.1 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN SAILOR FOUNDATION DEVELOPMENT CAMPAIGN TIMELINE TO LAUNCH MUSEUM CHAMPIONS i

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9 Section One INTRODUCTION & HISTORY

During World War II, the facility served as a welcome center for almost a million Sailors who entered boot camp before joining their respective fleets.

10 1.1 WHY A NEW VISION? The National Museum of the American Sailor (NMAS) is located at Naval Station Great Lakes, the home of the Navy s only boot camp. The current Great Lakes Naval Museum is located in the Hostess House, which was designed in 1942 by prominent architect Gordon Bunshaft. During World War II, the facility served as a welcome center for almost a million Sailors who entered boot camp before joining their respective fleets. By adopting Naval Station Great Lakes as its home, NMAS connects enlisted Sailors, Navy families, and the general public to this unique Naval facility and the central role it played in the Navy s wartime and peacetime history. NMAS needs a new vision that shifts from a regional focus to one that better reflects the diverse interests of its visitors, many of whom travel from across the country to attend boot camp graduation at Recruit Training Command. This new vision fills an interpretive gap in the Navy museum system by focusing on the historical experiences of the enlisted Sailor and better incorporates the history of Naval Station Great Lakes and its symbolic role as the first home of naval recruits. In order to capitalize on the interest in the Navy s only boot camp and the history of the enlisted Sailor, a new vision and interpretive plan for a modern museum is required. This plan identifies and prioritizes facility needs and maximizes interpretative space utilization and flexibility in a modern museum floor plan to serve the Navy for generations to come. 1 View from the North of Great Lakes Naval Museum, Naval Station Great Lakes, Illinois 2

1.2 EXISTING SITE & FACILITY 1 Crosley Dr Location The Great Lakes Naval Museum is located in Building 42 just outside the perimeter fence of Naval

The Naval Station is also home to the Training Support Command (TSC) and the Naval Service Training Command (NSTC).

1991 by Great Lakes Naval Museum Foundation to preserve Great Lakes boot camp history.

Museum moved to Building 42 and opened in November 2008. Great Lakes Naval Museum became an official U.S. Navy museum in January 2009.

Farragut Ave Gate 1 Site Plan Aerial Building 42 (Hostess House) Designed by Gordon Bunshaft of architectural firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill

11 1.2 EXISTING SITE & FACILITY 1 Crosley Dr Location The Great Lakes Naval Museum is located in Building 42 just outside the perimeter fence of Naval Station Great Lakes. The Naval Station is home to the U.S. Navy s only boot camp at the Recruit Training Command (RTC). The Naval Station is also home to the Training Support Command (TSC) and the Naval Service Training Command (NSTC). History N Badge/ Museum Entry Great Lakes Naval Museum 42 Pass Office 3 4 Dewey Ave Museum originally founded ca by Great Lakes Naval Museum Foundation to preserve Great Lakes boot camp history. In 1998, the museum moved to Building 158 inside the gates of Great Lakes Naval Training Center. Museum moved to Building 42 and opened in November Great Lakes Naval Museum became an official U.S. Navy museum in January attendance was 47,000 visitors. Farragut Ave Gate 1 Site Plan Aerial Building 42 (Hostess House) Designed by Gordon Bunshaft of architectural firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill (SOM). Constructed in 1942 and served as a visitors and reception center for almost one million Sailors who came through Great Lakes during World War II. The modernist design incorporated an open floor plate with exposed wood beams/roof, a large brick fireplace and woodframed windows facing Pettibone Creek. Eligible for listing on National Register of Historic Places View from the West of Museum Entry View from the West of Museum View from the East of East Terrace 3

1.3 EXISTING EXHIBITS The collection contains historical artifacts and archives related to the enlisted Sailor that date from

CONFERENCE GIFT SHOP LOBBY Great Lakes Bulletin archives (oldest continuously running newspaper in the Navy).

BACK OF HOUSE MUSEUM OFFICES AND COLLECTIONS STORAGE 1 MUSEUM EXHIBIT SPACE 2 RESTROOMS SPECIAL EXHIBIT GALLERY PERMANENT

12 1.3 EXISTING EXHIBITS The collection contains historical artifacts and archives related to the enlisted Sailor that date from ca s. It includes: Approximately 600 naval uniforms. Thousands of boot camp company photographs. CONFERENCE GIFT SHOP LOBBY Great Lakes Bulletin archives (oldest continuously running newspaper in the Navy). The Keel (Navy graduating company yearbooks). BACK OF HOUSE MUSEUM OFFICES AND COLLECTIONS STORAGE 1 MUSEUM EXHIBIT SPACE 2 RESTROOMS SPECIAL EXHIBIT GALLERY PERMANENT EXHIBIT SPACE 3 EXISTING FLOOR PLAN [Note: Numbers in floor plan above relate to pictures shown below.] Exhibit of Sleeping Conditions - Bunk Bed Exhibit of Eight Week Training Program Exhibit of Components of Historic Naval Uniform 4

13 Section Two THE FUTURE MUSEUM

2.1 PROPOSED SITE AND FACILITY The National Museum of the American Sailor is the pinnacle anchor of Great Lakes / North Chicago s Sheridan Crossing Cultural and Entertainment District.

5 acres of landscaped grounds, water features, and sculpture gardens.

14 2.1 PROPOSED SITE AND FACILITY The National Museum of the American Sailor is the pinnacle anchor of Great Lakes / North Chicago s Sheridan Crossing Cultural and Entertainment District. Located along Sheridan Road and immediately west of Naval Station Great Lakes Gate 4, the Museum is an architectural marvel comprising: approximately 3.5 acres of landscaped grounds, water features, and sculpture gardens. 40,000+ square feet of interior Museum space including multiple exhibit galleries, a performance auditorium, conference and meeting rooms, gift shop, and supporting facilities. convenient dedicated surface parking for visitor/patron automobiles and touring charters. In addition, the surrounding Sheridan Crossing Cultural and Entertainment District includes approximately 350,000 square feet of complementary hospitality, dining, entertainment, and retail amenities in support of the Museum. PROPOSED FLOOR PLAN PROPOSED MUSEUM LOCATION IN THE SHERIDAN CROSSING CULTURAL & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT 6

15 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN SAILOR ENTRANCE RENDERING 7

16 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN SAILOR CONCEPT RENDERING - LOOKING SOUTHWEST 8

17 Section Three PRELIMINARY EXHIBIT CONCEPTS

Preliminary Concept The National Museum of the American Sailor strives to present visitors with the story of the American sailor from the earliest days of the U.S. Navy to the present.

18 Preliminary Concept The National Museum of the American Sailor strives to present visitors with the story of the American sailor from the earliest days of the U.S. Navy to the present. The proposed exhibits are roughly organized into three areas: 1) an introductory section that describes the overall history and role of the U.S. Navy; 2) an area that focuses on the story of naval training, including the story of the Great Lakes facility; and 3) a final area that explores the experiences of American Sailors in the past and today. The exhibits will highlight a variety of themes and ideas, many of which will link back to the broader history of the U.S. Navy. Key takeaway messages Provide visitors with a better understanding of the history of the U.S. Navy and its contributions to America and the world. Highlight the past and present experiences of the enlisted Sailor while in service with the fleet. Explain the importance of naval training; how Sailors were trained in the past and how they are trained today; and the role of training in developing citizens into Sailors. EXHIBIT BUBBLE DIAGRAM: CONTENT AND FLOW PLANNING 10

3.1 INTRODUCTION TO TODAY S NAVY This introductory area provides an overview of the U.S. Navy story for visitors and highlights its role as protector, responder, and innovator.

naval history from its roots in the late eighteenth century through the present day, with particular emphasis on the experience of American Sailors from the early days of sail through the modern

Navy, its development and modernization during the nineteenth century in tandem with the industrial development of the country, its emergence as a powerful global force in the twentieth century, and

This area will also include a personal story segment highlighting great Navy Sailors of all enlisted ranks throughout the ages, including senior grades.

19 3.1 INTRODUCTION TO TODAY S NAVY This introductory area provides an overview of the U.S. Navy story for visitors and highlights its role as protector, responder, and innovator. It will also include an abbreviated timeline of U.S. naval history from its roots in the late eighteenth century through the present day, with particular emphasis on the experience of American Sailors from the early days of sail through the modern nuclear Navy. The timeline, which can be adapted from the detailed outline already developed by NHHC, will serve as a powerful educational tool to enlighten visitors about the origins of the U.S. Navy, its development and modernization during the nineteenth century in tandem with the industrial development of the country, its emergence as a powerful global force in the twentieth century, and its continuing operations today. True to the museum s mission, it will also emphasize that the success of the Navy is due in part to the enlisted Sailor. This area will also include a personal story segment highlighting great Navy Sailors of all enlisted ranks throughout the ages, including senior grades. The Navy Today Interactive Globe By highlighting the Navy s presence around the world, this large interactive globe will let visitors explore the broad reach of today s Sailors. Surrounded by representative images of current Navy personnel, visitors will use interactive touchscreens beneath a holographic globe to learn more about the extent of naval operations. The globe itself will correspond with the activities of the modern Navy, but the entire experience will provide a window into how Sailors will continue to serve the nation in the future. 11

3.2 FROM CIVILIAN TO SAILOR This area examines the experiences of new Sailors from the past through the present day, exploring both what has changed over time and what has remained consistent.

20 3.2 FROM CIVILIAN TO SAILOR This area examines the experiences of new Sailors from the past through the present day, exploring both what has changed over time and what has remained consistent. Modern images and stories can be juxtaposed with historical narratives dating back to the late eighteenth century to highlight how the experience of today s Sailors is part of a long tradition of service. Key Storylines: The Rise of the Enlisted Sailor: Exploration of why Sailors have historically joined the Navy, the informal training of Sailors (apprentices, etc.) and their historical contributions through the late nineteenth century; changes as the Navy entered the age of coal-fired, steel ships; experiences of the Spanish-American War highlighting pressing need for more formal training programs; historical roots of the ratings system. Professionalization of the Enlisted Sailor: As the Navy modernized and expanded, there was an increased need for more formally trained Sailors; tells the story through the perspective of various conflicts after 1911 including World War I, World War II, Vietnam, etc. Core emphasis on Sailor s creed: Instilling the Navy s core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment in addition to the importance of duty, teamwork, self-discipline, traditions, and advancement. Development of U.S. Navy Sailor culture instilled at boot camp: Slang, music, traditions, and emphasis on physical fitness. Development of the trainer as the precursor to today s modern Recruit Division Commander (RDC). Government Issue : Development of the standardization of the Sailor uniform, drill, Bluejackets Manual, inspections, etc. Demographics of Today s U.S. Navy Sailors: Why people chose to join the Navy and how this has evolved over time; increased ethnic and gender diversity (these themes will also be highlighted in other exhibit areas as well). Development of A and C schools system (and pre-a School training for some ratings); expansion of ratings system parallels evolution of technology as the Navy struggles to stay on the cutting edge; incorporation of an approach that allows for flexible depiction of naval ratings system, given that it undergoes continual changes and refinements. Establishment of Great Lakes training facility, as well as other training sites (Orlando, Bainbridge, San Diego, etc.); evolution of the naval training facilities to the present day. From Here to the World: Training experience at the Great Lakes facility. Evolution of the new Sailor from initial arrival through graduation: Transition from individuals with different backgrounds to shipmates with common goals. A glimpse into the daily life of Sailors during their time at Great Lakes as they move along the path to becoming an American Sailor: Processing, physical training, classes, technical training, Battle Stations, capping ceremony. While each recruit who joins the Navy pledges to uphold the values of honor, courage and commitment, there are sailors who go above and beyond the call of duty by displaying conspicuous bravery. They risk their own lives to ensure the success of the Navy s mission, to safeguard those who they are entrusted with protecting, or to protect the shipmates with whom they serve. The Navy has a time-honored tradition of recognizing the acts of valor performed by its Sailors. In honor of the dedication and bravery of these sailors, the National Museum of the American Sailor will offer visitors a chance to learn about the Navy s highest honors, including the Medal of Honor, the Navy Cross, and the Silver Star, and the heroism of the recipients who have earned them. Exhibit of Medal of Honor 12

21 Exhibit of Fitness at Sea Exhibit of Ship Work Assignments 3.3 MANNING THE MODERN NAVY This final area explores the experiences of American Sailors today, highlighting how the values, skills, and experiences provided by rigorous training help prepare them for their duties in the modern Navy. Images and stories drawn from today can be juxtaposed with historical content to emphasize both the continuity of naval traditions and how the experience of enlisted Sailors has changed over time. This area can also provide a recruiting message by illustrating the incredible range of opportunities for those interested in pursuing a Navy career. Key Storylines: Life Aboard Ship: Shipboard life for American Sailors and how this has changed over time; use ship models to show changes in living conditions; also cover service of Sailors at shore facilities, naval bases, etc. Living Quarters: comparison of historical and modern living quarters, including berthing area, mess decks, and galleys. Fitness and Recreation: from meeting job-specific fitness standards to continuing education classes to relaxing with friends, more happens aboard ship than just work. Keeping in Touch: contrast historical experience of sailors with today; Sailors can readily communicate with home through shipboard mail, phones, and often ; formal and informal support from organizations and families. Ships Underway: What American Sailors do today and what they have done in the past; role of Sailors during shipboard operations; general and specific ratings working in unison; examples from range of operations (navigation, resupply, humanitarian missions, etc.). Deployment: for three to nine months at a time, Sailors can serve on nearly 300 vessels from aircraft carriers to small coastal patrols. Working Environment: various sea tours and ship assignments result in highly specialized positions when working at sea; enlisted careers and jobs range from computer science to special operations. Regimented Schedules: aboard ship, a Sailor s time is incremented into shifts including regular duties, standing watch, liberty, or free time. Roles of enlisted personnel: exploration of the Navy enlisted ratings structure; rising through the ranks during your naval career; unique role of Navy Chiefs as very few other naval forces have a comparable rank (could incorporate materials from the Navy Memorial s Year of the Chief exhibit); emphasize theme that all enlisted personnel play an essential part in naval operations. Safety at Sea: Elaborates on the basic job of an American Sailor; the first duty of every Sailor is to protect the ship. While the essential responsibility of providing damage control has not changed, the tools, techniques, and training has evolved considerably. American Sailors are trained to respond to a wide range of potential emergencies. Use models of the USS Cole (DDG-67) and USS Forrestal (CV-59) and accompanying interactives to explore the critical role of American Sailors in damage control procedures. Combat at Sea: Role of American Sailors during combat operations; the value of constant training, committed vigilance, and deep-rooted courage. Range of roles that Sailors play during combat operations and how these have changed over time. Cover gamut of naval vessels, from submarines to aircraft carriers. Use interactives and naval weaponry macro artifacts to illustrate key theme of teamwork. 13

Sailor Life Then and Now Upon entering the Life

life from the early years of the Navy to today.

environments will show visitors the evolution of

Using interactive touchscreens, visitors can learn

themselves, gaining an intimate look at the

22 Sailor Life Then and Now Upon entering the Life Aboard Ship area, visitors will experience Sailor life from the early years of the Navy to today. A series of immersive historical and contemporary environments will show visitors the evolution of how Sailors ate, slept, and worked aboard ship. Using interactive touchscreens, visitors can learn more about life below deck from Sailors themselves, gaining an intimate look at the experience of Navy service from the first wooden vessels up to the present day. 14

Docking Team Interactive Entering a simulated ship s

and trajectory, others will monitor currents, communicate

23 Docking Team Interactive Entering a simulated ship s bridge, groups of visitors will work together to steer, dock, and moor a modern Navy Destroyer. As some visitors navigate, controlling the ship s speed and trajectory, others will monitor currents, communicate with shipmates and other vessels, and finally, moor the ship dockside. By learning to work together as a team, visitors will gain an appreciation for the complexities of maneuvering a ship safely into port. 15

Damage Control Team Interactive Visitors will complete various interactive

to an onboard explosion to repairing a leak.

24 Damage Control Team Interactive Visitors will complete various interactive exercises to discover more about one of the most crucial duties of every Sailor protecting their ship and shipmates. The challenging missions include a range of shipboard emergencies, from responding to an onboard explosion to repairing a leak. In one simulation, visitors outfitted with equipment will work together to suppress a fire. Wielding a hose blasting air and a beam of light, they will confront a projection of fire and smoke that will respond to the team s efforts to control the blaze. Nearby exhibit graphics will convey how these activities parallel actual naval drills. 16

Special Events Area A variety of exciting spaces will dominate the experience and diversify

A 4-D theater, generous retail space, and a large, multiservice Special Events Area will

receptions and galas for the general public.

suspended World War II-era Douglas SBD Dauntless, formally used as training aircraft at the

25 Special Events Area A variety of exciting spaces will dominate the experience and diversify the functionality of the National Museum of the American Sailor. A 4-D theater, generous retail space, and a large, multiservice Special Events Area will accommodate special activities such as graduation simulcasts, Navy ceremonies, and receptions and galas for the general public. Looking onto the landscaped outdoor grounds, this glass event space will feature a suspended World War II-era Douglas SBD Dauntless, formally used as training aircraft at the nearby Naval Air Station and later recovered from Lake Michigan. Traffic passing on the nearby road will see into the impressive space and be drawn in by the banking dive bomber. 17

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27 Section Four CHARTING THE COURSE

4.1 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN SAILOR FOUNDATION The National Museum of the American Sailor Foundation (NMASF), a registered 501(c)(3) corporation, is mission-driven to organize, fundraise,

28 4.1 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN SAILOR FOUNDATION The National Museum of the American Sailor Foundation (NMASF), a registered 501(c)(3) corporation, is mission-driven to organize, fundraise, design, construct, and assist in on-going operation of the National Museum of the American Sailor. The NMASF Board of Directors and leadership is comprised representatives from corporate, institutional, municipal, and federal entities and organizations, as well as individuals with a commitment to honoring the service and dedication of the American Sailor. NMASF Board of Directors: President - Mr. Ken Tucker, Carley Partners, LLC Treasurer - Colonel Richard J. Hazdra, United States Air Force (Retired) Secretary - Mr. Christopher Kurtz, United States Navy, Submarine Force (Separated) Captain Henry J. Hendrix, PhD, United States Navy (Retired) Captain David P. Torma, United States Navy (Retired) Mr. Robert Runnels, United States Navy (Retired) Mr. J. Michael Drew, Structured Development, Inc. Liaisons & Leaders: Executive Director - Mr. Ronald E. Lanz, AICP, Lanz & Associates, Inc. Counsel - Mr. Adam Simon, Ancel, Glink, Diamond, Bush, DiCianni, Krafthefer, P.C. Mr. James Bruns, Naval Histroy and Heritage Command Ms. Jennifer Searcy, PhD., Naval History & Heritage Command 20

4.2 DEVELOPMENT CAMPAIGN Featuring exhibits focused on the history and culture of the Navy, the National Museum of the American Sailor is a world-class destination dedicated to the celebration of the

29 4.2 DEVELOPMENT CAMPAIGN Featuring exhibits focused on the history and culture of the Navy, the National Museum of the American Sailor is a world-class destination dedicated to the celebration of the United States Navy s Enlisted Sailor. The National Museum of the American Sailor Foundation is the official 501(c)(3) corporation established to implement development of the Museum. The NMASF will undertake the formal design, fundraising, construction, and ongoing operation of the National Museum of the American Sailor facility at Great Lakes / North Chicago. Upon completion of construction, the NMASF will continue its mission and assist with ongoing operations and where necessary future fundraising initiatives in support of the Museum. The following represents the anticipated funds necessary to successfully complete the National Museum of the American Sailor at Great Lakes / North Chicago: Museum Property: 3.5 Acre Parcel Donated by City of North Chicago Museum & Exhibit Design and Construction: Design & Construction Documents Building & Grounds Construction Exhibit Design, Construction, & Installation Subtotal Design & Construction Operational Endowment: On-Going Operational Endowment Fund Total Estimated Museum Project Cost: $875,000 (est.) $17,975,000 (est.) $8,250,000 (est.) $27,100,000 (est.) $12,500,000 (est.) $39,600,000 (est.) How to Participate Additional information on the National Museum of the American Sailor campaign and to participate and donate to the project please visit our web site at 21

4.3 TIMELINE TO LAUNCH While the official mission to develop the National Museum of the American Sailor began in 2016, the drive to recognize the patriotism and sacrifice of the American Sailor had

30 4.3 TIMELINE TO LAUNCH While the official mission to develop the National Museum of the American Sailor began in 2016, the drive to recognize the patriotism and sacrifice of the American Sailor had its roots in the earliest days of the United States Navy. The American Sailor represents the pinnacle of honor, service, and commitment and the National Museum of the American Sailor is dedicated to preserving and celebrating their unique experience. The development of the Museum is anticipated to take approximately thirty-six (36) months from organization incorporation to formal ribbon cutting at the new facility in late Initial energies will be focused on raising the capital necessary to fund the building and exhibit design process. Concurrent with the design process, NMASF will actively promote the Museum s mission within and beyond the Navy community to secure the construction and operational endowment funds to maintain this cultural asset for all future generations. 4.4 MUSEUM CHAMPIONS Just as they are in the United States Navy, teamwork and commitment are also hallmarks for the National Museum of the American Sailor. The NMASF is honored to have the support and collaboration of organizations, entities, and individuals who are personally, professionally, and patriotically invested in honoring the American sailor through implementation of the National Museum of the American Sailor. 22

31 NMASF CONTACT INFORMATION Foundation Offices: National Museum of the American Sailor Foundation 610 Farragut Avenue, Building 42 Great Lakes, Illinois Telephone Number: Web Site & Address: / info@nmasf.org 23

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