News Release

Brian Harmon Selected as Superintendent of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial

Brian Harmon, superintendent of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.

Photo by NPS

News Release Date: October 13, 2026

PUT-IN-BAY, Ohio — The National Park Service has selected Brian Harmon as the new superintendent of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. With more than 25 years of experience, including 15 years with NPS, Harmon has demonstrated leadership in park operations, resource management, cultural resource protection, partnerships and project management. He will assume this new role in the fall.

"Brian’s broad experience leading park operations, building partnerships and protecting cultural resources will serve Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial well,” said Pete Swisher, acting deputy director of the NPS Midwest Region. “His collaborative leadership will help advance the memorial’s mission and strengthen its connections with the surrounding community.” 

Currently, Harmon serves a dual role at Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota, as acting superintendent and program lead for natural and cultural resources. Previously, he served as acting superintendent of Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial in Indiana. Harmon also served in various leadership positions at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Rainbow Bridge National Monument and other national park and cultural resource programs. 

“I am honored to join the team at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial and return to the shores of Lake Erie,” said Harmon. “The memorial’s history, its connections to the Great Lakes and its message of peace make this an especially meaningful opportunity. I look forward to working with employees, partners and affiliated communities to care for and share this important place.” 

Harmon grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, and has a particular fascination with tall ships and the history of naval warfare during the age of sail – interests that closely align with the maritime heritage of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. He and his wife enjoy hiking, biking and snowshoeing.  

Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie, fought during the War of 1812, and honors the lasting peace between the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. The memorial, a Doric column, rising 352 feet over Lake Erie, is situated five miles from the longest undefended border in the world. As both a national memorial and an international symbol of peace, the site invites visitors to reflect on the costs of conflict and the enduring value of understanding among nations. 

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