Press Releases
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Latest Updates
Stay up-to-date with the latest news and announcements surrounding our museum project and ongoing initiatives. From groundbreaking events to community partnerships and fundraising efforts, our press releases offer insights into the progress and impact of our mission to honor the legacy of Carolina Marines and Sailors.
For Immediate Release
Carolina Museum of the Marine Announces Major General Joe Shrader, USMC (Ret) as its New President and CEO
Jacksonville, NC – The Board of Directors of the Carolina Museum of the Marine is pleased to announce the appointment of Major General Joe Shrader, USMC (Ret), as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer. Major General Shrader, who brings over 30 years of distinguished service in the United States Marine Corps, will succeed Brigadier General Kevin J. Stewart, USMC (Ret), who is stepping down due to health reasons.
Since coming on board to lead the museum in September of 2022, Brigadier General Stewart has achieved a number of important funding, approval, design, contracting, and staffing milestones culminating in the long-awaited beginning of construction of the Museum. Under his leadership, the Museum has grown its programs and strengthened its mission to honor and preserve the history and values of the Marine Corps. The Museum Board of Directors extends its deepest gratitude to Brigadier General Stewart for his dedicated service and on behalf of the Museum’s leadership, staff, supporters and stakeholders wishes him all the best in his health journey.
“We are incredibly grateful to Brigadier General Stewart for his excellent leadership and commitment to the Museum,” said Lieutenant General Mark Faulkner, USMC (Ret), Chair of the Carolina Museum of the Marine Board of Directors. “At the same time, we are excited to welcome Major General Shrader to this important role. His extensive Marine Corps experience and passion for preserving the Marine Corps legacy make him the ideal leader to guide the Museum forward.”
Major General Shrader, who retired from active duty in 2022, began his service as an infantryman, later returning to West Virginia where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering technology from Bluefield State College. Shrader later served in numerous key leadership roles in the Marine Corps, including Commanding General of Marine Corps Logistics Command and Commanding General Marine Corps Systems Command. His deep expertise in operations, strategic planning, and organizational management will be critical as construction and development of the Carolina Museum of the Marine proceeds.
“I am honored to take on this role and continue the great work Brigadier General Stewart has done,” said Major General Shrader. “Carolina Museum of the Marine plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing the legacy and values of the Marine Corps, and I am excited to work with the community to advance its mission.”
In addition to his focus on construction and building organizational capacity, Major General Shrader will lead the Museum’s efforts in expanding outreach, enhancing educational exhibits, and spearheading fundraising initiatives to support the Museum’s scheduled opening in 2026.
Carolina Museum of the Marine, located in Jacksonville, NC, is dedicated to telling the story of the Marines in the Carolinas and their enduring impact on the nation’s defense. Through dynamic exhibits and educational programs, the Museum strives to inspire visitors of all ages with the core values of honor, courage, and commitment.
For more information about the Carolina Museum of the Marine and upcoming events, visit www.MuseumoftheMarine.org or contact Kevin Stewart at kstewart@museumofthemarine.org
About the Carolina Museum of the Marine
Carolina Museum of the Marine is a 25,000 square foot museum under construction in Jacksonville, NC. Its mission is to honor the legacy of Marines and Sailors who have served in the Carolinas and to inspire future generations. Doors are due to open in the spring of 2026.
For Immediate Release
CEO Kevin Stewart Steps Down Due to Health Reasons, Leaving a Legacy of Excellence and Vision at Carolina Museum of the Marine
Jacksonville, NC — Carolina Museum of the Marine today announces the resignation of our widely-esteemed CEO, Brigadier General Kevin Stewart, USMC (Ret) who has led the organization for the past two years with unparalleled passion and dedication during the construction of our long-awaited museum honoring Carolina Marines and Sailors. Due to a recent diagnosis of pre-chronic leukemia and an existing heart condition, Stewart has made the decision to step down to focus on health, wellness, and family.
Throughout his tenure, Stewart has been a driving force behind the museum’s mission to celebrate the bravery, sacrifice, and history of Carolina Marines and Sailors. Under his leadership, the museum has seen remarkable progress, bringing the vision of a world-class institution closer to reality with each passing day. Stewart’s commitment to honoring Marines and Sailors has left an indelible mark on this project and on everyone who has had the privilege of working alongside him.
“We are incredibly grateful for Kevin’s inspiring leadership and tireless work to bring this museum to life,” said Chair of the Board, LtGen Mark Faulkner, USMC (Ret). “While we are saddened by his departure, we are filled with hope and optimism for his recovery and future endeavors. Kevin’s impact on this project and our community will be felt for years to come, and we wish him strength and healing during this time.”
Despite this change, the team at Carolina Museum of the Marine remains steadfast in its commitment to opening the museum and fulfilling Stewart’s vision. Plans for the museum’s grand opening remain on track for the spring of 2026.
The board of directors of Carolina Museum of the Marine will conduct a search for a new CEO to carry forward the work that Stewart so passionately championed.
We invite the community to join us in sending well wishes to BGen Stewart and to continue supporting the museum during this transition. The journey to opening our doors is well underway, and we are excited to welcome everyone to experience the tribute to Marines and Sailors that BGen Stewart so deeply believes in.
For media inquiries, please contact Kevin Stewart directly at:
BGen Kevin Stewart, USMC (Ret)
Chief Executive Officer
kstewart@museumofthemarine.org
Groundbreaking Ceremony (May 17, 2024)
Veterans, active duty service members, community leaders and supporters gathered for the groundbreaking of the Carolina Museum of the Marine. The museum will honor Marines and Sailors in our state. The event marked a significant milestone, not just for Jacksonville, but also for North Carolina as a whole…
