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Honoring a Legacy: Bryan Degner Education Classroom Dedication

Fredericksburg – The National Museum of the Pacific War (NMPW) in Fredericksburg is set to honor beloved educator Bryan Degner by dedicating its new education classroom as the Bryan Degner Education Classroom. This special event will take place at the Museum’s George H.W. Bush Gallery on Wednesday, April 16 at 1pm.

Bryan Degner’s nearly four-decade-long career has profoundly shaped the lives of countless Texas students. Known for his innovative teaching methods, Degner brought history to life through immersive, hands-on lessons often delivered in authentic period attire. His journey with the Museum began in 2003 as a living history volunteer, and he later played a pivotal role in developing the Museum’s battlefield and living history programs. Degner advanced to positions such as Education Director and Education Outreach Coordinator, becoming a cornerstone of the Museum’s outreach initiatives.

“Volunteering and teaching at the NMPW is in my blood,” Degner shares. His distinctive style of period costuming and interactive presentations have become synonymous with the Museum’s approach to history education. Throughout his tenure, Degner’s guiding principle has remained: “If you fail to prepare, prepare to fail.”

Degner’s contributions extend beyond teaching history—he has inspired a genuine passion for learning. “Some of my most memorable moments as an educator were students telling me they hated history before my class, and afterward, it became their favorite subject,” he recalls. His impact is so profound that former students frequently credit him as their inspiration for pursuing careers in education.

Steve Salazar, President and CEO of the Admiral Nimitz Foundation, remarked, “As we floated the idea of naming our new classroom, the resounding chorus from the team of Directors was unanimously Bryan Degner, for his unmatched life-long contributions to education.”

David Shields, Museum Director of the National Museum of the Pacific War, added, “Bryan was always the first guy there and the last to leave. He was always prepared to give his all for the program and for the Museum. He’s a consummate educator and colleague who gives 100% effort, 100% of the time.”

Expressing gratitude for his career and experiences, Degner notes, “I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to work for the NMPW. I plan on continuing to volunteer and promote the museum every chance I get.”

The public is warmly invited to join Museum leaders, community members, and special guests at the dedication event to celebrate Degner’s lasting impact on education.

• Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2025
• Time: 1:00 PM
• Location: National Museum of the Pacific War, Fredericksburg, TX

This dedication marks a significant tribute to an educator whose passion and dedication have left an indelible mark on the community and the field of history education.