In a very special evening that celebrated the men and women who have contributed to our nation’s proud history, the National WWII Museum hosted the Whitney Bank “Victory Ball” on May 16.
Deborah and Joseph Exnicios, joined by Paulette and Frank Stewart, co-chaired this spectacular evening. The ball also hosted a very special guest: Cokie Roberts, who served as mistress of ceremonies for the night and also had the honor of accepting the prestigious American Spirit Award that was posthumously bestowed upon her mother, the late Ambassador Corinne “Lindy” Boggs, for her service and patriotism.
The evening’s activities kicked off with an exclusive patron party and cocktail hour at John Besh’s American Sector restaurant and the Stage Door Canteen. There, guests relaxed while bidding on a silent auction, which featured several lavish offerings, such as an in-home dinner with a private chef as well as a ride for two in Krewe of Freret’s next Mardi Gras parade.
Later in the evening, guests found their way to the US Freedom Pavillion: The Boeing Center, for a seated dinner and awards show. During the presentations the museum screened a short film, Victory Begins at Home: New Orleans 1944, which chronicled the city’s heavy involvement in WWII victory.
Chef John Besh’s decadent menu featured dishes such as a “crawfish boil” salad, a choice of redfish or smoked hanger steak and French opera cake.
The elegant “Victory Ball” concluded with performances by the Victory Big Band, and then with Otto Candies’ “How Sweet It Is!” event, complete with dessert.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: Whitney Bank “Victory Ball,” benefiting the National World War II Museum
When: Friday, May 16
Where: National World War II Museum
