National Museum of the Marine Corps opens respite room

The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation marked PTSD Awareness Month by dedicating a respite room on June 12 at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, Virginia.

The Dr. Thomas L. Murtaugh Respite Room offers a tranquil, calming setting where visitors can gather their thoughts in a quiet space away from the activity of the main exhibit areas.

The respite room features a calming environment with soft lighting, tranquil colors, and soothing decor. Comfortable seating and wooden wall panels help to block out exterior noise, creating a serene space where visitors can find peace and quiet amidst the museum's powerful exhibits.

“Some of our visitors are working through post-traumatic stress, and the museum’s exhibits may trigger an emotional response.  The Respite Room is a way for us to recognize that and provide support for them,” said retired Marine Maj. Gen. James W. Lukeman, President and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.

The museum’s exhibits showcase the bravery and sacrifices of Marines and the sailors who serve alongside them. While these exhibits are educational and inspiring, their realism can sometimes evoke strong emotions and memories.

“The room helps bridge the civilian/military divide by encouraging civilians to ask, why a respite room?” said  Director of the National Museum of the Marine Corps Keil Gentry. “Through that simple question, we open up conversations on the impact of military service on both Marines and their families.”

The project was made possible by the support of Grace Zaczek and her husband Ronald, who passed away last year.

“Battlefields and weapons change, but the impact of war does not,” said Grace Zaczek during the dedication.

The room is dedicated to Dr. Thomas Murtaugh, who dedicated his life as a mental health professional to treating Marines, service members, and their families suffering from PTSD.

Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com .