Strategic Priorities: Global War on Terror Exhibit

The Friends of the New York State Military Museum are proud to support a major new exhibition titled “New Millennium, New Challenges: The Global War on Terrorism, 2001–2021”. This exhibit will honor the service and sacrifice of New Yorkers in the Global War on Terror, highlight personal soldier stories, and provide vital educational materials aligned with NYS Common Core Standards.

Project Description

"The attack took place on American soil, but it was an attack on the heart and soul of the world..."
— President George W. Bush, 10/11/2001

From 2001 to 2021, New Yorkers played critical roles in operations around the world—from Ground Zero to the mountains of Afghanistan. This exhibition will feature firsthand accounts, soldier-donated artifacts, and video-based storytelling to highlight the experiences of New York's veterans. Artifacts will include weapons, recovered items from raids on terrorist compounds, and uniforms such as that of PFC Stephen Tschiderer, a medic from Mendon, NY who famously saved and treated the sniper who shot him.

Educational Mission

A professional museum educator will develop free educational materials aligned to NYS Social Studies Learning Standards. These include lesson plans, interactive modules, and classroom activities—all accessible online statewide to expand the impact of the exhibit.

Project Benefits

This exhibit will enable the Museum to offer an interpretive experience on American military involvement in the Middle East, presenting stories that resonate personally with many New Yorkers. It will attract students, veterans, and tourists, increase regional visibility, and expand educational programming through lectures, university partnerships, and public events.

Project Budget

Total Projected Cost: $220,000

• Museum Personnel (NYSM): $85,000
• Exhibition and Graphic Design: $17,500
• Construction/Carpentry: $10,000
• Materials & Supplies: $10,000
• Education Program Development: $5,000
• Exhibit Cases & Enclosures: $35,000
• Artifacts & Mannequins: $7,500
• Graphic Production: $10,000
• Touchscreens & A/V: $20,000

Current Committed Funding: $105,000
Remaining Need: $115,000

Join the Mission

Help us honor the service of New York’s post-9/11 veterans and bring this important exhibition to life. Your tax-deductible contribution directly supports the preservation of contemporary military history.