United States Foundation for the Commemoration of the World Wars
Project Title
As a one-time grant for the development of a national memorial commemorating the legacy of the First World War
Date
Sep. 12, 2019
Duration
24 months
Description
Despite the monumental significance of the First World War in United States history, many Americans are unaware of the scope and impact of their country’s participation in it. The war not only established the U.S. as a global power, but it also fundamentally transformed American society. Women served in uniform for the first time and filled in the millions of jobs vacated by soldiers. African Americans and immigrants volunteered to serve their country despite being disenfranchised and discriminated against at home. In December 2014, Congress approved the construction of the first national World War I memorial in the nation’s capital. With Corporation support, the United States Foundation for the Commemoration of the World Wars and the U.S. World War I Centennial Commission will begin the memorial’s construction and develop its key interpretive and educational components. This will include the production of digital guides, multimedia products, and a mobile app that visitors can use to learn about the war’s impact and interact with the memorial’s exhibits, “A Soldier’s Journey” and “The Search for Peace.”