Why the Legion of Valor Museum in Fresno is important for all freedom lovers

When you walk into the Veterans Memorial Auditorium in downtown Fresno, you enter a room filled with the rich history of those who have served our country. Inside, the Legion of Valor Museum is more than just a collection of military memorabilia – it's where the sacrifices and stories of countless men and women come to life.

Having served in the U.S. Air Force at March Air Force Base in Riverside from 1985 to 1992, this museum is special to me.

This museum is an important part of Fresno's cultural landscape and offers something few other places can: a direct connection to our country's military history.

With its exhibitions, the museum honors the service of local veterans while also informing visitors about the larger context of American military history.

The birth of a museum

The Legion of Valor Museum was born out of necessity and passion. Michael Harris, the museum's director and CEO, explains, “The museum is a collection of military artifacts, historical artifacts, dating back to the Civil War and even some events beyond that, and extending to the current military operations in the country through all branches of service.”

In the early 1990s, the building that now houses the museum was nothing more than a neglected storage space. “This place was no longer usable or no longer wanted to be used. So it was abandoned,” says Harris. But then Charles Mungus, a Marine Corps and Army veteran of World War II and the Korean War, saw the potential of the empty space. “He realized there was a need for some kind of representation of our veterans and their service to the community and the country.”

Related story: Fresno's 'Mike' Shahin Nury dies at 100: Army veteran was …

With the support of the city council and some state grants, the museum began to take shape. “The state of California put in some grant money and they started to transform this vacant property into the museum you see today,” Harris says.

A collection like no other

The museum's collection is extensive and diverse, representing military history from the Civil War to present-day operations. One of the most poignant exhibits is dedicated to Major General Ronald Markarian, a local hero who flew 116 reconnaissance missions during the Vietnam War and received numerous awards, including two Legion of Merits and the Bronze Star. Markarian later served as California state director of the U.S. Selective Service System.

The museum also houses rare and historically significant items such as a brass-jacketed Gatling gun. “This particular Gatling gun is highly unique because it is encased in brass,” explains Harris. The gun was used by the Navy to prevent rust in the harsh conditions at sea, making it a rare and valuable piece.

Honoring Hollywood's heroes

The museum also honors the military service of Hollywood legends, an exhibit that grew out of Harris' frustration with modern attitudes. “One night I saw the host of this particular awards ceremony besmirching America, our patriotic calling and so on,” Harris recalls. This led him to research the war records of old Hollywood stars. “I did a little research and came across over 100 old movie actors that we all know well, who gave up their acting careers, went to war.”

Related story: US Army honors Nisei fighting unit that helped liberate Tuscany from Nazi fascism…

These were not just supporting actors, but big headliners like Charles Bronson and Jimmy Stewart.

“Charles Bronson, Jimmy Stewart and all these guys who were big stars in the movie industry were war heroes,” says Harris. The museum's exhibit honoring these stars is a reminder of a time when duty to country came before fame.

A Bible that saved a life

Among the most poignant exhibits is one displaying Judge Arthur Shepard's Purple Heart and Bible. During World War I, Shepard was nearly killed by a shrapnel bomb, but the Bible he carried in his breast pocket stopped the fatal fragment. “The surgeon made the funny comment that it was odd how an Irish Catholic could be saved by the Book of Hebrews,” Harris says with a smile. The Bible and medal are now displayed together, a testament to the miraculous events that saved Shepard's life.

A tribute to a fallen friend

Another very personal exhibit features a photograph and medals of Specialist William Foy Settle, a close friend of Mike Harris. Settle, who served in Vietnam, lost his life in combat – a sacrifice that made a lasting impression on Harris. “He was my best friend in high school,” Harris says. This heartfelt tribute ensures that Settle's memory lives on and is honored by those who knew him best.

Aviation history in focus

The museum also features an impressive collection of model airplanes, carefully recreated to replicate various aircraft from World War II. These models capture the power and precision of the aircraft that played a crucial role in the Allied victory and serve as a tribute to the brave crews who flew these missions.

But one of the most fascinating pieces in the museum's collection is the B-17 model used in 1985 Amazing stories TV episode The Mission. The episode, directed by Steven Spielberg, tells the story of a B-17 that miraculously lands safely after its ball turret gunner, stranded without landing gear, draws cartoon wheels that somehow become real. This iconic model, a piece of film and aviation history, is now proudly displayed in the museum.

The Liberator: A Tool of Resistance

In another exhibition, the museum displays the Liberator pistol, a primitive but effective weapon that was designed to be dropped behind enemy lines during World War II. Its purpose was simple: to give the occupied population a way to fight back and take more effective weapons away from their oppressors. The accompanying box and instructions underline the pistol's role as an important tool of resistance.

Exploring the weapons collection

The museum's extensive collection of historic firearms is another must-see. Mike Harris often examines the weapons on display himself, and each one tells a story about the soldiers who carried them and the battles they fought in. The collection is carefully curated and represents a wide range of eras and conflicts.

As a veteran, I find it a source of deep pride to walk through the Legion of Valor Museum. It is a place where my own experiences in the Air Force are connected to a larger story that spans generations and continues to shape our nation. If you are in the Fresno area, I highly recommend you take the time to visit this incredible museum. It's not just about looking at history – it's about understanding it, appreciating it, and remembering the people who made our freedoms possible.

Related story: WWII veterans return to Utah Beach to commemorate D-Day

The historic Veterans Memorial Auditorium stands as a proud tribute to the service and sacrifice of military veterans. Its stately presence invites visitors to explore the rich history preserved within its walls. The museum is open six days a week and offers free admission to all visitors. Whether you are a history buff, a veteran or simply someone who wants to learn more about the sacrifices of our military, this museum has something for everyone.

About the author

GV Wire producer Dean Kirkland is the founder and principal of Gas and Gears, an independent film production company that has produced numerous television series and feature films, including the award-winning documentary Racing Through The Forest (2014).