When you step into Veterans Memorial Auditorium in downtown Fresno, you enter a space filled with the rich history of those who served our country. The Legion of Valor Museum inside is more than just a collection of military memorabilia — it’s where the sacrifices and stories of countless men and women come to life.

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

This museum is a vital part of Fresno’s cultural landscape, offering something few other places can: a direct connection to our nation’s military history.

Through its exhibits, the museum honors local veterans’ service while educating visitors on the broader 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 occasions beyond that and all the way up to the present-day military operations in the country through all branches of the service.”

In the early 1990s, the building that now houses the museum was nothing more than a neglected storage space. “This place became non-usable or unusable or not wanted to be used. So it got abandoned,” says Harris. But then, Charles Mungus, a Marine Corps and Army veteran from World War II and Korea, saw potential in the empty space. “He realized that there was a need for some type of representation of our veterans and their service to the community and country.”

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With the support of the city council and some state grant money, the museum began to take shape. “The state of California kicked in some grant money and they began taking this empty facility and building it into the museum that you see today,” Harris recounts.

A Collection Like No Other

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

The museum is also home to rare and historically significant items like a Gatling gun encased in brass. “This particular Gatling gun is highly unique because it’s encased in brass,” Harris explains. 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 pays tribute to the military service of Hollywood legends, a display born from Harris’s frustration with modern attitudes. “I saw one evening how the host of that particular awards was sort of defiling America, our patriotic calling and so forth,” Harris recalls. This led him to research the war records of old Hollywood stars. “I did a little research, and I come up with over 100 old movie actors that we’re all very familiar with who left their acting careers, went off and fought the war.”

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These weren’t just bit players but major headliners like Charles Bronson and Jimmy Stewart.

“Charles Bronson, Jimmy Stewart, all those kind of fellows that were major headliners in the movie industry were war heroes,” says Harris. The museum’s display 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 touching displays is one that features the Purple Heart and Bible of Judge Arthur Shepard. During World War I, Shepard was nearly killed by shrapnel, but the Bible he carried in his chest pocket stopped the deadly fragment. “The surgeon made the funny comment about strange how an Irish Catholic was saved by the book of Hebrews,” Harris recounts 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 deeply personal exhibit features a photo 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 left a lasting impact on Harris. “He was my everyday high school best friend,” Harris shares. This heartfelt tribute ensures that Settle’s memory lives on, honored by those who knew him best.

Aviation History on Display

The museum also boasts an impressive collection of model planes, meticulously crafted to represent various aircraft from World War II. These models capture the power and precision of the aircraft that played pivotal roles in the Allied victory, serving 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 the 1985 Amazing Stories TV episode The Mission. Directed by Steven Spielberg, the episode tells the story of a B-17 that miraculously lands safely after its ball turret gunner, trapped with no landing gear, draws cartoon wheels that somehow become real. This iconic model, a piece of cinematic and aviation history, is now proudly displayed at the museum.

The Liberator: A Tool of Resistance

In another exhibit, the museum showcases the Liberator pistol, a crude yet powerful weapon designed to be dropped behind enemy lines during World War II. Its purpose was simple: provide occupied populations with a means to fight back and seize more effective weapons from their oppressors. The accompanying cardboard box and instructions highlight the pistol’s role as a crucial tool of resistance.

Exploring the Firearms Collection

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

As a veteran, I find a deep sense of pride walking through the Legion of Valor Museum. It’s a place where my own experiences in the Air Force connect to a larger story, one that spans generations and continues to shape our nation. If you’re in the Fresno area, I highly recommend taking 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 have made our freedoms possible.

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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’re a history buff, a veteran, or simply someone who wants to learn more about the sacrifices made by our military, this museum has something for everyone.

About the Author

GV Wire Producer Dean Kirkland is the founder and director 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).