On Thursday, June 4, the National World War II Museum honored veterans Walter D. Ehlers, Senator George McGovern and New Orleans’ own Amos Pierce with its prestigious American Spirit medallion, in front of an audience of over 400 guests at its annual Victory Ball. The event, which is the museum’s largest local fundraiser, was held in the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion of the museum, with lively entertainment provided by the Broadway cast of A Musical Tribute to Irving Berlin. Chef John Besh – whose new restaurant, The American Sector, will open in the museum in November – served guests a delectable three-course meal amidst the “Salute to the Stars and Stripes”-themed deep red and rich blue décor, proudly accented by American flags. The event also helped kick off the commemoration weekend of the 65th anniversary of the D-Day Normandy invasion.
This year’s Victory Ball was presided over by Dr. Nick Mueller, president and CEO, as well as Chairman of the Board, Governor Pete Wilson; the audience was also treated to addresses from the honorees. Patrons were able to attend a reception beforehand, and were given a sneak preview of the museum’s upcoming special exhibition. The ball was co-chaired by Terence and Henrietta Hall, of the title sponsor Superior Energy, and C. Paul Hilliard, a museum trustee and World War II Veteran.
