The Martial Arts History Museum in Glendale, California, has announced its acceptance into the Blue Star Museums program, a national initiative led by the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and thousands of cultural venues across the United States. While the standard program offers free summer admission to active-duty military personnel and their families, the Martial Arts History Museum is extending this benefit to provide free, unlimited year-round admission to these service members and up to five family members.
This expanded access covers all active-duty personnel across every branch of the U.S. military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, National Guard, and Reserves, as well as the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and NOAA Commissioned Corps. By removing barriers to cultural and historical education, the museum aims to create an inviting and inspiring sanctuary where military families can build lasting memories together.
Museum President Michael Matsuda emphasized the personal significance of this initiative, rooted in his family's legacy of service. His father served in the military, and his father-in-law was a member of the famed 442nd Regimental Combat Team during World War II. "These amazing people continue to put their lives on the line every single day for all of us," Matsuda said. "They sacrifice so much for our freedom, and providing this year-round opportunity is truly the least we can do to give back and honor our military families."
The importance of this announcement extends beyond the museum's walls. By offering year-round free admission, the museum sets a precedent for other cultural institutions to consider more sustainable and inclusive support for military communities. The Blue Star Museums program typically operates during the summer months, but the Martial Arts History Museum's decision to extend the benefit year-round underscores a growing recognition of the ongoing sacrifices made by military families. This move may inspire other museums and cultural venues to reevaluate their own offerings to better serve those who serve the nation.
For military families, the impact is tangible. Free, unlimited access provides an affordable and enriching activity that can be enjoyed repeatedly throughout the year, fostering a sense of community and appreciation. The museum's location at 201 N. Brand Blvd., B100, Glendale, CA 91203, makes it accessible to a large population in Southern California, including those near major military installations. The museum encourages donations to support its mission, and more information is available at MAmuseum.com.
This initiative also highlights the role of cultural institutions in supporting national morale and historical education. The Martial Arts History Museum, which showcases the rich history, art, and cultural heritage of martial arts, now becomes a year-round destination for military families to explore and learn together. As the nation continues to honor its veterans and active-duty personnel, such private-sector commitments play a crucial role in expressing gratitude and ensuring that the sacrifices of military families are not forgotten.
The museum's decision to join the Blue Star Museums program with an enhanced benefit is a powerful statement of appreciation. It not only provides a meaningful resource for military families but also sets an example for other institutions to follow. By stepping beyond the standard program, the Martial Arts History Museum demonstrates that honoring military service is not limited to a season but is a year-round commitment.
