Winston Groom presents “The Allies: Roosevelt, Churchill, Stalin, and the Unlikely Alliance That Won World War II”

5:00 p.m. Reception | 6:00 p.m. Presentation | 7:00 p.m. Book Signing

The Institute for the Study of War and Democracy is delighted to host best-selling author Winston Groom for a presentation about his new book, which tells the complex story of how three iconic and vastly different Allied leaders aligned to win World War II and create a new world order. By the end of World War II, 59 nations were arrayed against the Axis powers, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Joseph Stalin had emerged to control the war in Europe and the Pacific. Vastly different in upbringing and political beliefs, they were not always in agreement—or even on good terms. Often led by Churchill's enduring spirit, in the end these three men changed the course of history.

Using the remarkable letters between the three world leaders, enriching narrative details of their personal lives, and riveting accounts of battles won and lost, Groom shares one of the biggest stories of the 20th century—an interwoven and remarkable tale, and a fascinating study of leadership styles.

The reception and presentation, brought to you by the Institute for the Study of War and Democracy with generous support from the Strake Foundation, are free and open to the public but please register to attend.

For more information or to register, call 504-528-1944 x 412.

About the Author: Winston Groom was born in Washington, DC, but grew up in Mobile, Alabama. After a brief period in the US Army, Groom returned to Washington, where he worked as a reporter at the now defunct Washington Star, covering politics and crime. He enjoyed a stint in New York City socializing with literary legends before returning to Alabama, where he settled down to writing and enjoying life. He is the author of 18 previous books, including Forrest Gump (which later became an Academy Award-winning film), The Generals, and The Aviators.

Celebrating the 75th anniversary of PT-305's Commissioning

Built in New Orleans by Higgins Industries, the patrol-torpedo boat PT-305 was a critical asset for the US Navy during World War II, serving in European waters from 1944 to the end of the war. Following her wartime service, PT-305 served as a New York tour boat, a fishing charter, and an oyster boat, undergoing modifications along the way: new, less-costly engines; several new paint jobs; and a dramatic reduction in length. 

When she was acquired by The National WWII Museum, PT-305 was in dry dock in Galveston, Texas, and in serious disrepair. In April 2007, accompanied by Museum curators, PT-305 found her way back to New Orleans, where Museum became her home on land until she could be restored by a dedicated volunteer crew to her former glory. 

On March 25, 2017, a dedication ceremony returned PT-305 to her home waters of Lake Pontchartrain. Operating for rides and deck tours out of a custom-built boathouse at Lakeshore Landing, she has returned to service as a vehicle of education for current and future generations to learn about Home Front industry, PT-305's wartime service, and the service of the brave young men who served aboard her. 

On December 8, 2018 PT-305 will celebrate the 75th anniversary of her commissioning. PT-305 staff and volunteers are commemorating this special occasion with a special anniversary party at her boat house.

Event Details:

• 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. | Special commemorative rides
• 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Open house with dockside viewing of the boat, anniversary cake, beverages, and gift certificate specials
• 2:00 p.m. | Special remarks
  

Provided by PT-305 Excursions LLC