American Spirit Awards
The American Spirit Awards celebrate individuals and organizations whose work reflects the values and spirit of those who served our country during the World War II years. We honor those who inspire others through their own acts of courage, sacrifice, initiative, and generosity—particularly in the areas of leadership, service to country or community, and education.
The Billy Michal Student Leadership Award is presented annually to one student from each state and the District of Columbia who demonstrates the American spirit in his or her community. The values of leadership, teamwork, tolerance, creativity, and perseverance can and should be learned and lived by all Americans regardless of age.
Proceeds from the American Spirit Awards support educational programming at The National WWII Museum—including the ongoing development of classroom materials and professional-development opportunities for teachers in schools across the country, as well as online experiences that bring the Museum and its resources to students around the world.
THURSDAY, May 29, 2025
American Spirit Awards Recipient and Patron Reception
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Louisiana Memorial Pavilion
Cocktail Attire
FRIDAY, May 30, 2024
Billy Michal Student Leadership Forum
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center
Business Attire
Leading through example is a hallmark of the Museum’s honorees, and at the Leadership Forum and luncheon, American Spirit Award recipients will share their experiences with student leaders from throughout the country, offering motivating advice to tomorrow’s leaders.
2025 American Spirit Awards Gala
6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center
Formal Attire
Join us for an elegant black-tie gala on a night that will truly inspire. Following a three-course dinner, the Museum will present its highest honor to the deserving Americans who inspire greatness in all of us.
For more information, contact us at fundraisingevents@nationalww2museum.org.

Can't Attend This Year's Event?
Make a donation in support of the American Spirit Awards Education Fund.
INDIVIDUAL TICKETS
$1,500 Patriots Circle Member Ticket*
Includes admission to the following American Spirit Awards events:
- The American Spirit Awards Billy Michal Student Leadership Forum (Friday, May 30, 2025)
- The American Spirit Awards Gala (Friday, May 30, 2025)
*Active Patriots Circle Membership required
$2,500 Individual Ticket
Includes admission to the following American Spirit Awards events:
- The American Spirit Awards Billy Michal Student Leadership Forum (Friday, May 30, 2025)
- The American Spirit Awards Gala (Friday, May 30, 2025)
SPONSORSHIPS
$100,000 Gold Sponsor
Includes:
- Recipient and Patron Reception—20 invitations
- Billy Michal Student Leadership Forum—2 tables (20 invitations)
- American Spirit Awards Gala—2 tables (20 invitations)
$50,000 Silver Sponsor
Includes:
- Recipient and Patron Reception—10 invitations
- Billy Michal Student Leadership Forum—1 table (10 invitations)
- American Spirit Awards Gala—1 table (10 invitations)
$25,000 Bronze Sponsor
Includes:
- Recipient and Patron Reception—10 invitations
- Billy Michal Student Leadership Forum—1 table (10 invitations)
- American Spirit Awards Gala—1 table (10 invitations)
If you are interested in supporting the American Spirit Awards or the Museum's 25th Anniversary Celebrations as a presenting sponsor, please contact Fundraising Events at FundraisingEvents@NationalWW2Museum.org.