Driving force behind Infantry Museum says "mission accomplished", White announces retirement
Jerry White, former Fort Benning commander and the driving force behind the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, will retire Dec. 31, 2010. White has served as the National Infantry Foundation's President and Chairman since 1998.
White had a long and decorated career in the Army, culminating with his appointment as the commander of the U.S. Army Infantry Center from 1991 to 1994. After retiring from the Army he led the Chattahoochee Valley United Way for seven years.
But for many years, White's goal was to create a permanent memorial that would not only honor the Infantry in a way befitting its heritage, but also help the country understand the service and sacrifice of the American Soldier and his family.
After years of fund raising, planning and negotiations with the Army, White's dream was realized. The $100 million museum opened to great fanfare on June 19, 2009. Though largely credited for the museum's success, White deflects the praise. "This is not about me," he said at a ceremony held in his honor in April. "It is about the Soldier. It has always been about the Soldier. They deserve to be honored in a place as grand as their legacy."
Board member and businessman Jerry Newman said of White, "He had a dream and he did it. Not many people can say that in their lives. In 100 years, Jerry White will be remembered as the man who built that beautiful museum."
White said deciding to leave the museum was the toughest decision of his life. However, "It's time to look ahead to our future," he said. "It's time for the museum to grow into itself, to be more than just a reflection of my dreams and goals. "I have never been prouder than I was the day we opened the doors last year. This has been at the heart of who I am for so long. But, mission accomplished. Time to move on."
The museum will continue to operate under the leadership of Executive Director Ben Williams and Executive Vice President Greg Camp - who both have been with the project since its inception - until a replacement for White is named.
National Infantry Museum earns international recognition
The Themed Entertainment Association's version of the Oscar will be presented to The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center at Patriot Park during a black-tie gala in Hollywood. The Thea Awards, created to recognize achievement, talent and personal excellence within the themed entertainment industry, are known internationally as a symbol of excellence.
The award recognizes and honors excellence in the creation of extraordinary visitor experiences, attractions, exhibits and places according to incoming TEA president Rick Rothschild. "Storytelling and teamwork are the heart of the Experience Design Industry and its projects," he explains.
Among the artisans who participated in the National Infantry Museum were Christopher Chadbourne and Associates. The Boston-based group designed the exhibits for the National Infantry Museum including the signature The Last 100 Yards, taking visitors on an emotional journey through the history of the American Infantryman.
In addition to the ramp that represents the Infantry's role in taking the last 100 yards of the battle, the era galleries detail Infantry history. The exhibits bring to life the collection of more than 30,000 artifacts, from before the Revolutionary War to action today in Iraq and Afghanistan. Medal of Honor recipients are recognized in a special gallery, while another pays tribute to those who love an Infantryman, and the sacrifices they make supporting him.
The National Infantry Foundation's President and Chairman MG Jerry White says the international recognition supports his desire to honor the Soldier and reinforces his belief that the tribute to the Infantryman is a world-class facility.
The Awards will be presented March 12, 2011 at the 17th Annual Thea Awards Gala at the Globe Theatre, Universal Studios Hollywood. The National Infantry Museum will be recognized along with other venues such as: The China Pavilion, Shanghai Expo 2010; The Walt Disney Family Museum, The Glasnevin Museum, in Dublin, Ireland and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Resort Orlando.
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