Here in the presence of Washington and Lincoln, one the eighteenth century Father and the other the nineteenth century Preserver of our nation, we honor those twentieth century Americans who took up the struggle during the Second World War and made the sacrifices to perpetuate the gift our forefathers entrusted to us: A nation conceived in liberty and justice.
National World War II Memorial, Washington, D.C.
In 2001, as part of the WWII unit being studied, my students held a school fund raiser to help with the construction of the WWII Memorial being built in our nation's capital. The students were excited about hosting various fund raising activities, so they could be part of the national fund raising which was going on around our country.
Then, as a result of a curriculum planning session with the classroom aide, the idea of hosting a WWII Tribute developed, so the students would have an opportunity to personally thank our community's local WWII Veterans and Home Front Volunteers. Since then, this authentic, one of a kind learning activity has allowed my students to interact with and learn about character, perseverance, responsibility, and courage from the men and women of "The Greatest Generation."
As you look through this web site, the expressions on the faces of the men, women, and children tell the story of this event.
The big event is a WWII Tribute/USO show, which the students plan, organize and perform. Students sing 1940s and military songs, deliver speeches, perform skits, serve food & drinks, and say thank you in other ways. Relatives and/or friends are invited who served during this period. The day is designed for students to show their appreciation and say “thank you.” The honorees only have to sit back and enjoy the show.