5:00 p.m. (CT) Reception | 6:00 p.m. (CT) Presentation and Screening

Join The National WWII Museum and WYES for a presentation of Founded on Friendship & Freedom: The National WWII Museum in commemoration of the Museum’s 23rd birthday and 79th anniversary of D-Day. This recently released documentary tells the story of how two University of New Orleans historians sought to salute the spirit of Americans who fought to preserve our freedom.

Produced by Marcia Kavanaugh, Founded on Friendship & Freedom: The National WWII Museum focuses on the legacy of these two friends: Dr. Gordon “Nick” Mueller, Museum President and CEO Emeritus, and Dr. Stephen Ambrose, the best-selling author and historian who died in 2002. The film explores how this pair overcame challenges, secured support, and crafted a pathway to international success while also bestowing a priceless educational and economic asset to the community.

Before the screening, Dr. Mueller will be signing copies of his book, Everything We Have: D-Day, from 4:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. His newest work, Building The National WWII Museum, is available for preorder now and tells the story of the Museum’s remarkable progress, from its early days as The National D-Day Museum to the unveiling of the Museum’s final exhibit hall, Liberation Pavilion.

Registration is required for this free in-person event. A reception before the screening will include hors d'oeuvres, as well as an open bar with beer and wine. For additional information, contact Maggie Hartley, Director of Public Engagement, at maggie.hartley@nationalww2museum.org.

Schedule of Events:

• 10:15 a.m. : St. Augustine High School Marching 100 Performance - At U.S. Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center
• 11:00 a.m. : Dr. Hal Baumgarten D-Day Commemoration Ceremony - At U.S. Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center or online
• 5:00 p.m.: Reel History: Founded on Friendship & Freedom: The National WWII Museum - At Solomon Victory Theater