Friends of the National World War II Memorial

Haydn Williams World War II Memorial Legacy Lecture Conference

"250 Years of Service: From the Spirit of ’76 to the Legacy of ’45"

March 19-20, 2026 | Washington, DC

Join Friends of the National World War II Memorial for a free two-day virtual conference commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.

Register below for a dynamic exploration of how generations of military service, from the Revolution to World War II, have shaped the values that define our nation. Through powerful author presentations we’ll reflect on the leadership, courage, and civic responsibility that remain vital to our democracy today.

Thursday, March 19, 2026

‍9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
‍Rick Atkinson
The Two Greatest Generations
‍
10:15 – 11:15 a.m.
‍H.W. Brands
Andrew Jackson: Democracy 's Hero
‍
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
‍Alex Kershaw
Men of Honor: The 15th Infantry Regiment

Friday, March 20, 2026

‍9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
‍Rick Atkinson
Washington and Eisenhower
‍
10:15 – 11:15 a.m.
‍H.W. Brands
Ulysses Grant: War is Easy, Peace is Hard

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
‍Alex Kershaw
Blood and Guts: George S. Patton

The Asia-Pacific War and the Japanese-American experience.

Why Attend?

Experience America’s most respected historians, including Pulitzer Prize-winning author Rick Atkinson, best-selling biographer H.W. Brands, and acclaimed storyteller Alex Kershaw, as they explore timeless themes of freedom, duty, and democracy.
Gain new insight into our national identity, as we reflect on how the leadership lessons of George Washington and Dwight D. Eisenhower, and the sacrifices of ordinary citizens in extraordinary times, continue to guide us today.
Attended by a community of thoughtful Americans: educators, veterans, public servants, students, and history lovers, who share a commitment to preserving the memory of those who served and passed the torch of freedom to future generations.

Please Complete the Form Below to Register‍

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Haydn Williams World War II Memorial Legacy Lecture Conference

Thursday, March 19, 2026

Friday, March 20, 2026

The Asia-Pacific War and the Japanese-American experience.

Why Attend?

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Unity Award

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