Portraits of Courage Exhibit Hero Spotlight: Alexander Glenn-Camden

The Nixon Library isn’t known for art exhibitions and while the current special exhibit is a collection of sixty-six portraits and a four-panel mural that description doesn’t fully encapsulate Portraits of Courage. This exhibit was a way for a former Commander in Chief to offer tribute to the Americans who volunteered to serve in the military since 9/11. As described by President George W. Bush, “I painted these men and women as a way to honor their service to the country and to show my respect for their sacrifice and courage. I hope to draw attention to the challenges some face when they come home and transition to civilian life—and the need for our country to better address them.” 

Portraits of Courage is only available to see at the Nixon Library for a few more weeks. From now until the exhibit closes on May 19, we are profiling some of the heroes from this inspirational display.

Courtesy of President George W. Bush

Specialist Alexander Glenn-Camden– While serving in Afghanistan, Alexander Glenn-Camden was shot in the neck when his platoon was ambushed during a dismounted patrol in 2011. The bullet will remain in his neck for the rest of his life but he made a miraculous recovery and uses his experience to inspire others.

A native of Southern California, Alexander recently had the opportunity to meet with President George W. Bush when he came to open the Portraits of Courage exhibit at the Nixon Library in March. Joined by his fiancee, Nicole, the couple got to share the news with the President that they were getting married the following week. Since meeting President Bush through his work with veterans, the two had an ongoing joke. President Bush would ask every time he saw Alexander when he was finally going to marry Nicole.

Portraits of Courage will be on exhibit at the Nixon Library for its West Coast debut through May 19, 2024, thanks to the generosity of Lisa Argyros / Argyros Family Foundation. Tickets to the special exhibit are included with admission to the Nixon Library.

Portraits of Courage by President George W. Bush is on loan from the Argyros Collection at the George W. Bush Presidential Center, a non-profit whose work includes helping veterans and their families make successful transitions to civilian life.