The REIC will enhance the Nation's appreciation of the American Veteran while transforming the lives of living veterans, survivors, and family members.  Fostering connections and stimulating interaction between the public and veterans emerge as one of its primary missions.  Memorialization in this context includes awareness, education, meaningful exchanges, and celebration of interpretive veteran expression.  The architectural program to support this mission is organized around central Commons, which connects the Education, Showcase, and Administrative areas. 

The Education area focuses on academic programs and research, with spaces for collaborative storytelling and media projects. It houses the Veterans Legacy Program, which encourages students and teachers to engage with historical resources.  

The Showcase area features permanent, rotating, and temporary exhibition galleries that highlight the American veteran experience. The exhibits cover topics like Armed Forces history, National Cemetery Administration, and Medal of Honor recipients.  

The Administrative area has public-facing and semi-private spaces for VA support, counseling, and management. These areas have access to administrative support facilities like restrooms and office supply rooms.  

Overall, the design approach aims to stimulate synergies between these areas by establishing an engaging and inclusive environment that promotes the understanding and appreciation of American veterans and their stories.