The Hampton Roads Naval Museum has taken its place among the nations elite museums and attractions. In December, it received full accreditation from the American Association of Museums. Only about five percent of the nations 17,500 museums have received accreditation from the association. The Naval Museum joins the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Norfolk Botanical Garden as the only accredited museums in South Hampton Roads. The process is rigorous normally taking three to four years to complete the required seven steps. Accreditation brings national recognition to museums and reflects a commitment to excellence, accountability, and high professional standards. Since 1994, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum has operated on the second floor of Nauticus. It hosts about 400-thousand visitors each year. In addition to a vast collection of Naval history and artifacts, the museum staff also preserves and operates the U-S-S Wisconsin battleship. Admission to the museum is free. For additional information about the museum including hours of operation, visit online at www.hrnm.navy.mil, www.nauticus.org