Meet the Marine. Be Inspired.
On June 8, 2026, the Carolina Museum of the Marine will open at Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville, North Carolina, bringing to life a long-held vision rooted in service, leadership, and legacy.
This is not just a museum. It is a living tribute to character, courage, and commitment.
Here, history does more than remember; it teaches. Not what to think, but how to think.
Not just where we’ve been, but who we can become.
Through immersive exhibits, personal stories, and character-centered education, the Museum honors the past while preparing future generations to lead with integrity and purpose.
Proudly opening in Jacksonville, North Carolina, home to Carolina Marines and a community deeply rooted in service.
Support Our Mission
Your support helps ensure this place of remembrance and learning is open, accessible, and inspiring for generations to come.
Inside the Vision: A Walkthrough of the Future Carolina Museum of the Marine
Join our CEO, Major General Joe Shrader, USMC (Ret) as he takes us through the museum’s construction in progress.
About Carolina Museum of the Marine
The Carolina Museum of the Marine is building a 25,000-square-foot museum dedicated to honoring the brave Marines and Sailors who have served our nation with courage and commitment. More than just a museum, this landmark destination will offer inspirational exhibits, resources, and unique educational programs through the Al Gray Marine Leadership Forum.
“We have an overarching opportunity to provide a forward-thinking museum designed to ensure that the contributions of our Carolina Marines and Sailors to our Nation’s freedom are remembered, to teach young and old alike the virtue in understanding what made our great Nation a leader of the free world, and to help prepare our young people to lead, to follow, and to embrace future challenges.”
— General Al Gray, USMC (Ret), 29th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps
Discover Our Legacy
Explore Museum of the Marine
Delve into exhibits and stories that showcase the bravery and dedication of our Marines and Sailors.
Leadership Programs
Education:
Engage with programs that teach core values, strategic thinking, and leadership principles of the Marine Corps
Save the Date!
Join us for the Carolina Museum of the Marine Golf Tournament on September 25, 2026. Mark your calendars for an exciting day on the course, supporting the museum’s mission. We look forward to seeing you there!
EDUCATIONAL COURSES & RESOURCES
Discover our wide range of educational resources aimed at motivating and equipping future leaders. Immerse yourself in the Al Gray Marine Leadership Forum’s video courses, such as “The Art of Thinking” and “Introduction to Ethics,” or explore our compilation of articles, research papers, and historical documents focused on leadership training and Marine Corps history.
YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Your involvement is crucial to bringing the Carolina Museum of the Marine to life. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, you can help honor the legacy of our Marines and Sailors. Support Us today and be part of this inspiring journey.
