Soldiers' letters, an air raid shelter, and a Sherman tank bring to life how and why World War II was fought and won, and how it affected Americans. Founded by historian and author, Stephen Ambrose, the museum showcases the 1930s prelude to war, the Normandy Invasion and battles of the Pacific Island. Highlights include a reproduction, Louisiana-built Higgins boat, the landing craft that carried U.S. soldiers to shore in every major amphibious assault. In the John E. Kushner Restoration Pavilion, visitors get a close-up look at ongoing restorations of wartime vehicles and weapons. Opened in 2000, the museum was designated the nation's official World War II museum by Congress in 2003.