For the second year in a row, the North Carolina Estuarium will admit active duty military personnel into the museum for free. Facility Manager Blount Rumley said the discount lasts now through Labor Day and is part of Blue Star Museums campaign.

“The estuarium is very happy to be participating in this program,” Rumley said. “As a veteran, I’m personally excited about this program and I think in these times we need to support our military community as much as we can.”

The campaign is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, The Department of Defense and a record-breaking 2,000 museums across the United States. Participating museums offer free admission to active duty personnel, including National Guard and Reserve, as well as their families from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

The program gives military families an opportunity to enjoy the country’s cultural heritage. Families can also get to know their new communities after completing a military move.

Rumley said he saw a lot of families take advantage of the discount last year.

“I believe word-of-mouth among the military is spreading. A significant number of our military community came in here last year,” he said.  “And in the second year, I hope there are even more. We anticipate greater participation.”

The estuarium is located at 223 East Water Street in Washington. Regular admission is $4, $2 for students and seniors. Ages 4 and under are admitted free. For more information, call 948-0000. The complete list of participating museums is available at www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.