23 Years of Telling the Stories of the Citizen Soldier
23 Years of Telling the Stories of the Citizen Soldier
By PMML Staff
On October 23, the Pritzker Military Museum & Library celebrates its 23rd birthday, a milestone made possible by the members, donors, volunteers, veterans, researchers, and supporters who have been part of our journey. For 23 years, you have helped us tell the stories of the Citizen Soldier and share military history with audiences across generations.
Since opening in 2003, PMML has grown from a collection of books and artifacts into a museum, library, archive, and educational resource with a reach far beyond its physical location. Along the way, we have had the privilege of introducing new audiences to military history through exhibits, research services, public programs, and educational initiatives.
One of the ways PMML expanded that reach was through television programming. Series such as Citizen Soldier and Pritzker Military Presents brought conversations about military affairs, history, and national security into homes throughout the Chicago area.
Today, that commitment continues through streaming video, virtual programs, podcasts, and digital content that make military history accessible wherever people choose to engage with it. PMML now offers an extensive library of recorded programs featuring veterans, historians, authors, and military leaders.
Another important part of our story is the Holt Oral History Program. Over the years, veterans from different generations and walks of life have entrusted PMML with their Stories of Service, creating a growing archive of firsthand accounts that preserves their experiences and perspectives for future generations. More than 200 veterans have shared their stories through the program, helping ensure their service and sacrifice are documented and accessible for years to come.
Community engagement has also played an important role in PMML's first 23 years. While based in Chicago, PMML staff proudly participated in the Chicago Memorial Day Parade, connecting with the public through one of the city's most meaningful traditions. More recently, as PMML continues to grow its roots in Southeastern Wisconsin, staff participated in community events throughout 2026, including Kenosha HarborMarket, Kenosha Pride, Kenosha Kingfish games, and local September 11 remembrance program. These opportunities allow us to meet new audiences, share our mission, and become part of the communities we serve.
The move to Somers, Wisconsin, marked an exciting new chapter in PMML's history. While growing our roots in Southeastern Wisconsin, we continue to serve members, researchers, and history enthusiasts across the country through our collections, programs, and digital resources. The move also created new opportunities to expand access to our collections and strengthen services for visitors, members, and researchers alike.
As we celebrate our Golden Birthday, we're grateful for everyone who has been part of the journey. Thank you for helping us tell the stories of the Citizen Soldier over the past 23 years. We look forward to continuing that work together and sharing many more stories in the years ahead.