A ceremony and previews for the 9/11 community will lay the path for the opening of the National September 11 Memorial Museum, marking a milestone in American history.

A tribute-filled Dedication Period, which includes the ceremony and previews, is planned for 9/11 families, 9/11 rescue and recovery workers, active duty first responders from agencies that lost members in the 9/11 attacks, 9/11 survivors and lower Manhattan residents and business owners before the 9/11 Memorial Museum’s public opening.

The Dedication Period is from May 15 through May 20. The Museum then opens to the general public on May 21.

During the Dedication Period, the Museum will remain open 24 hours per day, allowing members of this community to visit when it is best for them. The previews are free, but reservations are required. Learn more at 911memorial.org/dedication.

"It will be a tremendous privilege to walk the completed 9/11 Memorial Museum for the first time with those who are a part of this defining period of our nation's history," 9/11 Memorial President Joe Daniels said.

By Anthony Guido, 9/11 Memorial Communications Manager

Wounded service members of the U.S. Armed Forces received a personal tour of the 9/11 Memorial from President Joe Daniels last week. Officers from the PAPD and NYPD stood at attention as the group walked onto the plaza and visited the names of first responders and Pentagon victims on the South Pool.

The service members were guests from the Semper Fi Fund, a nonprofit that provides financial assistance and lifetime support for injured and critically ill veterans and their families.

By Margaret Barng, 9/11 Memorial Deputy Communications Manager