What began as the National D-Day Museum in a single exhibition hall on June 6, 2000 — the 56th anniversary of the Normandy landings — evolved and grew through the years to become renowned The National WWII Museum.
This year, the museum commemorated its 25th anniversary with a week-long (May 29-June 7) slate of activities at the museum, starting with a patron and American Spirit Awards recipient reception. The next night — the official kick-off — was the gala for the American Spirit Awards, the museum’s highest honor. The award, presented annually, pays tribute to individuals whose impact and vision have mirrored the spirit of the men and women who served during World War II. The 2025 honorees were: New Orleans businessman Donald T. “Boysie” Bollinger, World War II veteran C. Paul Hilliard, and founding President and CEO Emeritus Gordon H. “Nick” Mueller.
“This year’s American Spirit Award honorees have helped build this museum into what it is today and have ensured the history of World War II is kept alive,” said Stephen J. Watson, president and CEO of the museum. “Without question, their vision, grit and tenacity paved the way for the Museum’s ambitious growth over the past 25 years. Their leadership will continue to guide our institution as we mark this milestone anniversary and begin an exciting new chapter.”
The afternoon before the awards gala was the Billy Michal Student Leadership Forum Luncheon, presented by the Kevin G. Clifford Family, when 51 students from across the U.S. were honored for their American spirit. Events following the American Spirit Awards included the book launch of “Preserving the Legacy: Creating the National WWII Museum,” by Nick Mueller and the 25th Anniversary Family and Member Day presented by Timber and Peggy Floyd.
Fun Fact: Another milestone event for the museum, its 2025 Victory Ball: Salute to Service on Nov. 7, attracted about 600 attendees and over 300 veterans and active-duty service members. The 2026 American Spirit Awards are June 4-5.
