Truman Library Institute, U.S. State Department, and Truman Hall to partner on the installation to celebrate Truman’s legacy

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM — In commemoration of NATO’s 75th anniversary, the Truman Library Institute is partnering with the U.S. Department of State and Truman Hall, which houses the U.S. Mission to NATO, to install a statue of President Harry Truman in Brussels in honor of his leadership in the founding of the alliance. The statue will be unveiled at an event on Wednesday at Truman Hall, where it will stay permanently.

“Tomorrow marks 75 years since my grandfather, President Harry S. Truman, and Secretary Dean Acheson signed the Instrument of Accession – making the U.S. a founding member of the North Atlantic Treaty. Today, America and our allies in the international community will honor their perseverance to build a better, more peaceful world. At a time when current events are leaving people feeling uncertain about what the future holds, NATO’s commitment to protecting freedom and democracy is more important than ever,” said Clifton Truman Daniel, honorary chairman of the board of the Truman Library Institute, ahead of the unveiling.

“On behalf of the Truman Library Institute, thank you to our U.S. Mission to NATO partners who have upheld my grandfather’s values of cooperation and hard work to ensure the west has the tools to foster peace and prosperity among members and on the world stage.”

The event will also feature remarks from Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Ambassador Julianne Smith, the U.S. Ambassador to NATO. NATO leadership, including Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, and defense ministers and Ambassadors from all NATO countries will be present to commemorate the 75th anniversary and honor President Truman and his role in founding NATO. Representing Truman and his legacy, Clifton Truman Daniel, the President’s eldest grandson, and the leaders of the Truman Library Institute and Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum will also be in attendance.

WHAT: Event commemorating NATO’s 75th anniversary and the unveiling of a statue of President Truman

WHEN: Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 2:00 PM EST

WHERE: Truman Hall, Tervuren, Belgium

WHO: 

• Secretary of State Antony Blinken
• Ambassador Julianne Smith
• Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg
• Clifton Truman Daniel
• Leaders of the Truman Library Institute and Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum

For more information regarding Wednesday’s installation, or if you are interested in covering the event, please contact Sarah Mucha at smucha@skdknick.com.

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View photos highlighting the finishing touches made in Kansas City, Missouri, and the statue’s arrival at the U.S. Mission to NATO, in advance of the April 3 unveiling and dedication.

Read Executive Director Alex Burden’s executive message.