The Virginia Museum of History & Culture honors active duty military personnel and veterans by offering free admission on Monday, May 27. This initiative is part of the museum’s Memorial Day observance, aimed at expressing gratitude to those who have served in the armed forces.

Visitors on Memorial Day may explore the museum’s latest exhibit, “Julia Child: A Recipe for Life.” The exhibit delves into Julia Child’s impact on American cuisine, and her dedication to making cooking accessible and enjoyable. In honoring veterans and active duty military personnel, the VMHC draws a meaningful connection to Julia Child’s own history of service.

Before becoming a culinary icon, Ms. Child served in the Office of Strategic Services during World War II, where she handled top-secret documents and contributed to wartime operations in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) and China. Her military service exemplified her dedication and adaptability, traits that would later define her culinary career.

Interactive storytelling elements in the exhibit include a re-creation of La Couronne, the French restaurant where Ms. Child experienced a meal that sparked her culinary passion, and a set from “The French Chef” television show, providing insight into her pioneering cooking program.

Photographs documenting Ms. Child’s career and her life with her husband, Paul, are also featured.

Active duty military and veterans can gain free admission by presenting a valid ID at the guest services desk. Tickets for other family members are available for purchase both in person and online at VirginiaHistory.org.