The Martial Arts History Museum in Glendale, California, has been accepted into the prestigious 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 country. While the standard program offers free summer admission to active-duty military personnel and their families, the museum is extending this benefit to provide free, unlimited admission throughout the entire year.
This enhanced offering means that active-duty service members from all branches—including the U.S. 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—can bring up to five family members to the museum at no cost, any day of the year. By removing financial barriers, the museum aims to create a welcoming space where military families can explore and bond over the rich history and cultural significance of martial arts.
Museum President Michael Matsuda, whose father served in the military and whose father-in-law was a member of the famed 442nd Regimental Combat Team during World War II, emphasized the personal significance of this initiative. "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 Blue Star Museums program has been a cornerstone of military appreciation since its inception, partnering with museums nationwide to offer free admission during the summer months. By extending the offer year-round, the Martial Arts History Museum sets a notable example of gratitude, ensuring that military families can engage with cultural education whenever they choose. This move aligns with the museum's mission to preserve and share the art and history of martial arts, making it accessible to those who serve the nation.
The museum, located at 201 N. Brand Blvd., B100, Glendale, CA 91203, invites all eligible service members to visit and experience its exhibits. More information can be found on the museum's website at MAmuseum.com. Donations are encouraged to support the museum's ongoing efforts.
This initiative not only honors military families but also underscores the importance of cultural institutions in fostering community and appreciation for diverse histories. As the museum opens its doors year-round, it sends a powerful message of respect and gratitude to those who protect the nation's freedoms.
