Nebraska National Guard Museum plans WWII display for Seward’s July Fourth celebration

SEWARD, Neb. (KLKN) — Nebraska’s Fourth of July city is preparing for its big Independence Day celebration.

Seward’s Fourth of July committee begins planning sometimes even as early as the day after the previous year’s festivities.

This is especially true for Nebraska’s National Guard Museum.

Veteran and Executive Director Gerald ‘Jerry’ Meyer described what it’s like to curate both a memorable and educational experience for all.

“It’s chaos if you look at it behind the scenes,’ he said. “It executes real well on the 3rd and the 4th, but it’s a lot of planning beforehand.”

Meyer described the tasks his team takes care of, such as manicuring the yard and putting up flags to getting the food and recruiting reenactors.

This year is also the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

The museum is spotlighting three soldiers from that war and hosting a band that will perform in their honor at Seward High School at 7 p.m. Thursday.

Volunteers both young and old could be found onsite Wednesday preparing to showcase the reminders of the war, such as the museum’s Higgins boat. It is one of only nine known to be left in the world.

Meyer said the museum is a place for those who want to truly reflect on the sacrifices and service of military members.

He shared a quote from Maj. Gen. Craig Strong, the adjutant general of the Nebraska National Guard: “The National Guard is our people, our soldiers and airmen, but the soul of the National Guard is this museum.”