Financial Contributions

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A Message from Bob Krafft, Executive Director

The National Military History Center came into existence through the incredible generosity of our founder, Mr. Dean V. Kruse, who donated money and time to establish our non-profit foundation. The foundation, in turn, established our museum. Federal grants attained through assistance from our congressman, Mark Souder, have also helped to develop the gallery design, storyline and initial exhibit construction. We have been fortunate to have these men of great vision devote their efforts and resources to acquire this collection and also to create a home for it.

Projects of this magnitude usually enjoy a long period of fundraising and development spanning beyond local and regional to national support. After a few years of fundraising, the project would become a reality and would have already established a large base of donors and “grass roots” supporters. In our case, the generosity of one man allowed us to bypass this development period and instantly purchase an incredible collection of WWII artifacts. Mr. Kruse’s gift also provided the funds to build a wonderful facility to house this remarkable collection. These two tasks were the fundamental steps in the first phase of the museum’s multi-phase development plan.

Mr. Kruse made his founding gift with the purpose of honoring the Greatest Generation and bringing an international historical/cultural destination to his hometown community--Auburn, Indiana. The magnitude of this museum and the lessons it has to communicate span far beyond our local, regional and national borders. We have the opportunity to share the artifacts, experiences, and lessons of the last generation to be asked to sacrifice on a scale of biblical proportions. Clearly no conflict since has required so much from so many. From 1939-1945, the men and women of the Allied nations combated Nazism, fascism and tyranny with strength of purpose and resolve that may never be surpassed.

In 2006, the announcement was made marking the transistion from a World War II museum to a military history center that honors veterans from all eras of American history which built this nation.

We must preserve these stories, these artifacts, and those life lessons. All of these must be communicated to future generations. That brings me to you, the “grass roots” supporters. Our founder sparked the creation of an incredible museum that we continue to develop. His generosity is greatly appreciated, but the museum must move forward through the enlistment of greater public support.

Please contact me if you are interested in participating financially in any of the following ways:

• Planned Giving
• Event Sponsorship
• Exhibit or Gallery Sponsorship
• Sponsorship of Educational Programming
• Offer services through your business