The Jones family’s influence in Texas is so great that the mayor of Arlington sought their help to build a museum on behalf of the National Medal of Honor Foundation.
The options were minimal, until he decided to call the Dallas Cowboys executive vice president and chief brand officer, Charlotte Jones, who got to work, and the offer she had for the foundation’s president was spectacular.
The conditions of Jerry Jones’ daughter, the Cowboys owner, were that the museum stay in Arlington and see a quick recovery as the Cowboys gave them more visibility, and by quick, she meant the Cowboys-Packers game that weekend.
But the winning move was when she promised a visit from former presidents George W. Bush and Laura Bush at the same event. Charlotte, who now chairs the museum’s board of directors, made it clear: “We can make this happen if you agree right now. I’m not going to call the former president if you don’t say we’ve got it under control.”
That was four years ago, but there is a reason why it is still being talked about, according to the website essentiallysports.com.
The collaboration was no accident. In fact, in addition to the publicity and national attention, it was a $20 million commitment from the Joneses, who took the total funding to an impressive $70 million to build a home for 3,507 American heroes who dedicated their lives to the country.
Now, the vision has become a reality with the official opening of the National Medal of Honor Museum on March 25.
Charlotte laid the groundwork for the Medal of Honor Museum, saying, “Their stories will come to life for generations of visitors, inspiring them to act bravely in their own communities.
“After a five-year journey and decades more for many awardees, I felt honored. Honored and proud to be part of the incredible inaugural celebration of the National Medal of Honor Museum,” Jones added.
Troy Aikman’s simple but emotional message for Charlotte Jones
The former Cowboys quarterback and three-time Super Bowl winner, Troy Aikman, was moved and could not look away for long.
Aikman commented: “Incredible”, adding a red heart emoji and an American flag to his reaction, but the museum is not another war monument or military museum.
Its purpose is to serve as a narrative through the lives of ordinary people who did something extraordinary to serve their country.
Dak Prescott present at the inauguration
Dak Prescott also attended the event. And he was not alone, as he was alongside his pregnant fiancee, Sarah Jane Ramos.
In addition, new head coach Brian Schottenheimer was photographed at the event with his wife. To add to this list of notable attendees, Senator John Cornyn also expressed his views on the museum opening in his backyard.
“These are the best of the best, the best of America. People who risked everything, some who gave their lives to defend our country and our way of life,” Cornyn shared.
The museum officially opened its doors on Tuesday, March 25, after three years of construction and decades of struggle, veterans finally get what they deserve.
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