Oregon Military Museum reopens after $13M remodel

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – The Oregon Military Museum is taking visitors a step into the past, but with an eye toward the future.

Director Kathleen Sligar says there’s a lot to see in the 32,000 square foot building.

“I can’t wait to have more people through the doors,” she said. “Yes, we’re a military museum but we’re really a history museum about Oregonians.”

The museum at Camp Withycombe is fully open once again after a $13 million remodel that took more than 15 years.

There is an art gallery, an arms room featuring more than 200 weapons, and even a wall of valor honoring Oregon’s most distinguished veterans and medal of honor recipients.

“People who think it’s just tanks, helicopters — that’s not the case. That’s so not the case,” Sligar said.

Every generation is represented, and nearly 30 volunteers lend their time so families can appreciate a piece of state history that makes Oregon proud.

“It’s important to come and remember they’re just like you and I,” Sligar said. They’re our neighbors, the person checking you out at the grocery store. Everyone has a background, and we showcase that and that service components together.”