FREDERICKSBURG — The National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg will dedicate its new education classroom as the Bryan Degner Education Classroom.
Degner, whose innovative teaching shaped the lives of generations of students, is receiving a unique and lasting honor.
The dedication of the Bryan Degner Education Classroom at the Museum’s George H.W. Bush Gallery will take place at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 16.
Widely recognized for his outstanding contributions to history education during his 16 years teaching at Boerne Middle School North, Degner’s passion for teaching had a lasting impact on his students.
The dedication honors Degner’s nearly four-decade-long career, during which he inspired countless Texas students by making history come vividly alive through immersive, hands-on lessons often delivered in authentic period attire.
“Volunteering and teaching at the museum is in my blood,” said Degner, who has continued to volunteer actively at the museum beyond retirement.
His distinctive method of delivering history lessons through vivid storytelling and historically accurate costumes has not only captivated countless students but has also become a hallmark of the Museum’s education program.
Degner’s journey with the National Museum of the Pacific War (NMPW) began in 2003. Initially volunteering as a living history interpreter, Degner participated in the WWII island assault reenactment program. He officially joined the staff in 2016, assisting in the development of the Museum’s acclaimed Pacific Combat Zone battlefield experience. Degner later advanced into roles as education director and education outreach coordinator, significantly expanding the museum’s educational outreach and bringing history to life for students throughout Texas.
“If you fail to prepare ... prepare to fail,” is a phrase Degner affectionately considers his classroom mantra. He fondly notes that former students regularly credit him with igniting their love of history — some even inspired to pursue their own careers in education.
Steve Salazar, president and CEO of the Admiral Nimitz Foundation, said, “As we floated the idea of naming our new classroom, the resounding chorus from the team of directors was unanimously Bryan Degner, for his unmatched life-long contributions to education.”
David Shields, NMPW museum director, added, “Bryan was always the first guy there and the last to leave. He was always prepared to give his all for the program and for the museum. He’s a consummate educator and colleague who gives 100% effort, 100% of the time.”
Degner is quick to express gratitude for his career and experiences.
“I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to work for the NMPW,” he said. “I plan on continuing to volunteer and promote the museum every chance I get.”
The public is invited to join museum leaders, community members and special guests on April 16 at the dedication event to celebrate Degner’s lasting impact on education.
The museum is located at 311 E. Austin St. in Fredericksburg.
During his 16 years teaching at Boerne Middle School North, Bryan Degner’s passion for teaching had a lasting impact on his students.
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