News Releases

News Releases

Commemorating 70th Anniversary of WWII’s Victorious End | February 18, 2015

WWII/70 Online Media Kit

During 2015, the Truman Library Institute and Harry S. Truman Library and Museum will commemorate the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II while honoring President Truman’s leadership during those final and crucial chapters of the conflict. Official events marking the anniversary will provide wonderful opportunities to honor WWII veterans, relive the “Spirit of ‘45,” and rededicate ourselves to the lessons of history and the safeguarding of our democracy.

Anniversary highlights include:

MUSEUM EXHIBITION
TIL WE MEET AGAIN: THE GREATEST GENERATION IN WAR AND PEACE
An all-new exhibition takes America back to the tumultuous year of 1945 to share the epic struggle of world leaders and everyday men and women who found the strength and courage to accomplish the extraordinary. News reels, fireside chats, and personal letters and diary entries offer visitors a you-are-there experience, while iconic artifacts and documents highlight the major events of 1945, including the death of FDR, Truman’s unexpected rise to the presidency, the Allied victory in Europe, the horrific battles in the Pacific, and the ultimate surrender of Japan. But following one of the most devastating chapters in human history, Americans – and the unlikely president – must ask, “Where do we go from here?” This dramatic exhibition reminds us that the monumental story of World War II also is the story of every American family, and that the challenges faced by the “Greatest Generation” must be answered by the next great generation.

SIGNATURE COMMEMORATIONS
WILD ABOUT HARRY / April 23, 2015 – In the spirit of 1945, the Truman Library Institute’s 16th annual fund raising dinner will be a USO-styled celebration featuring Rick Atkinson, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Liberation Trilogy, and The Honorable Bob Dole, 2015 Harry S. Truman Legacy of Leadership Award honoree. Special recognition will be given to local WWII veterans Henry Bloch, Bill Dunn, Sr., and Ed Matheny.

V-E DAY 70th Anniversary COMMEMORATION / May 8, 2015 – President Truman’s 131st birthday also is the 70th anniversary of V-E Day. We’ll honor the Allied victory with a Veterans Appreciation Ceremony, Presidential Wreath Laying, 1945-era music, food, fun and much more. Hundreds of veterans will enjoy VIP hospitality on this special day.

V-J DAY 70th Anniversary Celebration / August 14, 2015 – The Truman Library will be the site of a very special day commemorating the 70th anniversary of V-J Day, the end of the war in the Pacific, the end of World War II, and President Truman’s leadership.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH & EVENTS
WWII LECTURE SERIES / Leading historians, biographers and commentators will offer fresh insights on the last world war.

MUSEUM PROGRAMS / Museum and community outreach programs will include World War II Weekends, open sessions in The White House Decision Center, a WWII Film Series and much more.

For complete details, please view the WWII/70 Online Media Kit.

The Truman Library Institute is the nonprofit partner of the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum, one of 13 presidential libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration. Together with its public partner, the Truman Library Institute is dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of America’s 33rd president through nationally acclaimed educational programs, world-class museum exhibitions, and timely public forums. Together we can contribute to a better tomorrow by helping adults and students alike better understand our democracy, the American presidency, and each person’s power to make a difference.