The Museum

The Foundation's Vision

The vision of the Great Lakes Naval Museum, now an official U.S. Navy museum, under the direction of Naval History and Heritage Command, is to enhance and become an integral part of the training mission of the Naval Service Training Command, Great Lakes, by instilling in our newest Sailors a strong sense of tradition and heritage of naval service in the United States.

To realize this vision, the Museum, with guidance and assistance from the Foundation, is in the process of renovating historic Building 42 known as the “Hostess House,” which will provide visitors with an interactive, multi-media experience designed to accomplish the museum’s goals as set forth in its mission statement. The Foundation also envisions this facility will provide the training command with a place of gathering, with sufficient space for Command functions, receptions and veterans' group reunions.

In addition, we are a cultural and educational institution dedicated to preserving and sharing our growing historical collections and extensive archives with our members, visitors, and the community. We connect the past to the future so all generations will understand and appreciate the richness of the United States Navy training and "boot camp."