NEW ORLEANS — The National WWII Museum will open its latest special exhibition, Come Back Fighting: USS New Orleans at War, with a reception and presentation from its curator on Thursday, April 9. This event is free and open to the public.
Come Back Fighting follows the prolific history and remarkable resilience of the decorated heavy cruiser USS New Orleans (CA-32) and her veteran crew that mirror the indomitable spirit of her namesake city. Exploring the US Navy warship’s short but accomplished career, the exhibit examines the vessel’s triumphs and tragedies — from her prewar commission to her participation in nearly every major campaign of the Pacific war — as well as her crew’s creativity, improvisation, and determination to save their ship after the devastating attack that cost the New Orleans her bow and claimed more than 180 lives.
The opening event will include a reception followed by a special presentation on the exhibit by Museum Curator and Restoration Manager Cory Graff. The exhibit will be open for viewing before and after the presentation.
Come Back Fighting will be on display in the Museum’s Joe W. and Dorothy D. Brown Foundation Special Exhibit Gallery through Feb. 14, 2027.
This exhibit is supported by The Toler Foundation.
WHEN:
Thursday, April 9, 2026
5 p.m. Reception | 6 p.m. Program
WHERE:
The National WWII Museum
945 Magazine St.