In an unprecedented effort, the largest ever gathering, albeit virtual, among living World War II veterans will take place via live streaming on September 2, 2020 – but they need America’s help to do it.
The date marks a major milestone in global history – 75 years since the end of WWII, the war that shaped the world we live in today and gave rise to the Greatest Generation.
Before COVID-19 arrived on our shores, 60 WWII veterans had hoped to make a pilgrimage to Hawaii to celebrate the anniversary in person. Today, veteran travel to Hawaii is no longer possible given safety regulations and quarantine requirements, so the 75th World War II Commemoration Committee is facilitating virtual participation for all veterans.
Despite this innovation, the organizers now face the unique challenge of raising over $100,000 to support high quality digital streaming of the September 2 commemoration on the deck of the USS Missouri and the Aerial of Peace historic flyover of 14 WWII aircraft. As a committee of nonprofit organizations struggling to keep their doors open as they face the impact of COVID-19, the committee is challenged now more than ever to cover these unanticipated costs to ensure every veteran is able to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime experience, honoring their personal service and sacrifice.
One hundred percent of the funds raised will be used to support the digital streaming of the 75th Commemoration of the End of World War II events, ensuring veterans and their families can participate safely from home.
Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is located on Historic Ford Island, where bombs fell during the attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941. Visitors to the museum can walk the Pearl Harbor battlefield where the attack began, enter the bullet-scarred hangars, and see the control tower and aircraft of the battle, including a Japanese Zero and the B-17 Swamp Ghost.
