The daughter of a WWII US Navy veteran, Cokie Roberts was a steadfast advocate of The National WWII Museum’s mission to tell the story of the American experience in the 20th century’s defining conflict. 

The pioneering ABC, PBS, and National Public Radio newswoman and author died September 17 at age 75. 

In May 2014, Roberts served as master of ceremonies for the Museum’s Victory Ball, our annual salute to service. At the ceremony, Roberts accepted the American Spirit Award for her late mother, Corinne "Lindy" Boggs, who had played a key role in advancing the Museum’s development and mission as a member of our Board of Trustees from 2002 to 2007. 

The Museum’s highest honor, The American Spirit Award pays tribute to individuals who demonstrate extraordinary dedication to the principles of America's freedom and democracy. Lindy Boggs served nearly 18 years in Congress beginning in 1973, and later as US Ambassador to the Vatican. Her husband, Thomas Hale Boggs, represented Louisiana for many years as a leader in the US House of Representatives. 

Drawing on her family’s service experiences during and after the war, Cokie Roberts compellingly addressed the influence of the WWII generation in Congress during the postwar era, when veteran lawmakers drew on their unified war experience and connections to reach across the political divide and confront the nation's most pressing issues. 
    
"The passing of Cokie Roberts came all too soon,” said President and CEO Emeritus Gordon H. “Nick” Mueller, PhD, who shared the Victory Ball dais with Roberts. “Cokie and the entire Boggs family were dearly loved in New Orleans and Louisiana, and Cokie championed the growth of The National WWII Museum since its opening 19 years ago.

"Cokie became one of our nation's great journalists, paving the way for other talented and determined women to reach the profession's highest level. Because of her family's WWII experience, she had a deep sense of history and a special appreciation for the contributions of the Greatest Generation. Her life and work conveyed the best of the American spirit. We will all miss her greatly."