The Martial Arts History Museum in Glendale, California, has been officially accepted into the 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 Martial Arts History Museum is going further by providing free, unlimited year-round admission to these service members and up to five family members.
This expanded benefit applies to all active-duty personnel across every branch of the U.S. military, including the 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. By removing barriers to cultural education, the museum aims to create a welcoming and inspiring space where military families can build lasting memories together.
Museum President Michael Matsuda emphasized the personal significance of this initiative, noting that his father served in the military and his father-in-law was a member of the famed 442nd Regimental Combat Team during World War II. “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 thousands of museums nationwide to offer free admission during the summer months. By extending this offer year-round, the Martial Arts History Museum sets a new standard for gratitude and support. This decision not only benefits military families but also enriches the museum’s mission to preserve and share the history, art, and cultural heritage of martial arts with a broader audience.
The impact of this announcement is significant for the military community, providing an accessible recreational and educational outlet that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. For the museum, it strengthens its role as a community pillar, fostering goodwill and recognition for those who serve. Additionally, it highlights the growing trend among cultural institutions to offer more comprehensive support to military families, potentially inspiring other museums to adopt similar year-round policies.
The Martial Arts History Museum is located at 201 N. Brand Blvd., B100, Glendale, CA 91203. For more information, visit MAmuseum.com. Donations to support the museum’s initiatives are encouraged.
