The National Museum of American Jewish Military History expands the scope of U.S. military history with its innovative exhibitions about the often-forgotten efforts of Jewish American soldiers: The museum's portable ark and altar made from a footlocker contains objects found on a World War II battlefield that have been "translated into subjects of peace," according to an exhibit label.
Hanging from the trunk's corners are two 37 mm capshells, which a Jewish chaplain sounded like chimes to announce the beginning of a worship service; brass rings, also taken from shells, encircle the base of candlesticks.

Operated by the Jewish War Veterans of the U.S.A (JWV), the museum documents the contributions of Jews who have defended the United States during times of peace and war. Reacting to slander that Jews had not participated in the military during the Civil War, several veterans founded JWV in 1896 under the title of Hebrew Union Veterans.

The museum's R Street location also serves as JWV headquarters. Off the main exhibition room, visitors will find a small chapel dedicated to Capt. Joshua L. Goldberg, who served in both world wars and was the first career Jewish chaplain in the Navy. Photographs and memorabilia in a rear room chronicle the career of Maj. Gen. Julius Klein, one of the few Jewish military men to achieve such a high rank.

Group tours are available, but unnecessary with these text-heavy displays. While it's hard to predict exactly what will be on view -- exhibit schedules do not always adhere to fixed dates.

-- Margaret Hutton