Florida Remembers World War II
February 21 to June 1

This exhibition honors the heroic contributions Floridians made during one of the most decisive chapters in our nation’s history, the Historical Museum of Southern Floridais privileged to be one of 4 museums in the state chosen to host this impressive traveling historical exhibition.

Florida Remembers World War II was organized by the Museum of Florida History for the Department of Veterans Affairs as part of its Florida World War II Living Memorial project. This timely project is designed to preserve, for generations to come, the indomitable spirit, exceptional commitment, and willing sacrifices of Floridians during World War II. The exhibition is dedicated to the veterans who served their country and to the citizens who gallantly contributed on the home front.

World War II brought dramatic changes to Florida’s placid lifestyle. Florida’s strategic location made the state vital for national defense. Military installations were activated before and during the war to protect Florida’s coasts. According to official statistics, approximately 248,000 Floridians served in the war, including women and African-Americans. Florida Remembers World War II will transport visitors through time, examining along the way the events that forever altered Florida’s destiny. Visitors will have the opportunity to see first-hand documentation of events from responses to the attack of Pearl Harbor to Florida’s German POW camps.

Organized by The Museum of Florida History for the Department of Veterans Affairs as part of its Florida World War II Living Memorial project.

Artwork from the cover of a State of Florida promotional booklet distributed to encourage service members who trained in Florida to return after the war.