It is truly astonishing to think that out of the 16.1 million Americans who served during World War II, only 119,550 are still with us today, most of whom are in their 90s or older. These brave men and women fought fearlessly and emerged victorious from the great conflict. Now, it is our duty to ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten.
The National WWII Museum stands as a testament to the bravery, sacrifice, and perseverance of these extraordinary veterans. With less than 1 percent of them still among us, it is imperative that we honor their legacy and preserve their heroic tales for future generations. The museum, with its unwavering commitment to sharing the American experience during this war that shaped the world, has a crucial role to play.