Greatest Generation Celebration: Honoring the 80th Anniversary of the End of World War II
Join us in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the hometown of President Gerald R. Ford, as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II with a heartfelt tribute to the Greatest Generation. This extraordinary event honors the millions of American and Allied forces, patriots, and citizens who made immense sacrifices to ensure a world free of tyranny.
Image from Greatest Generation Day 2020 flyover.
Signature Events
Honor Parade & Wings of Honor
📅 Monday, September 1 (Labor Day) | 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
📍 Downtown Grand Rapids
Step back in time with a grand Honor Parade, reminiscent of the celebration 80 years ago at the end of WWII. Watch as era-authentic civilian vehicles, military equipment, veterans, Rosie the Riveters, Scouts, and more take to the streets of Grand Rapids. The parade will conclude with a breathtaking Wings of Honor flyover, featuring historical WWII aircraft from across Michigan, including those built at Willow Run.
Image from Greatest Generation Day 2020 flyover.
🔹 Best Viewing Locations: Ottawa Avenue to Monroe Avenue along Lyon Street, Monroe Avenue to Pearl Street over the Grand River, ending at Scribner Avenue behind the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Afterward, gather at Ah-Nab-Awen Park or along the Grand River bridges for the Wings of Honor flyover.
Bell Ringing Ceremony
📅 Monday, September 1 | 8:08 PM
📍 Throughout Grand Rapids
At precisely 8:08 PM, bells will ring across Grand Rapids in remembrance of the moment World War II officially ended—marking the Japanese surrender at 9:08 AM September 2, Tokyo time, 80 years ago. Step outside and listen as we collectively honor this historic moment.
🔹 Susan Eisenhower
📅 Thursday, September 4 | Evening
📍 Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
Author and granddaughter of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Susan Eisenhower will provide a unique perspective on the sacrifices and resilience of the Greatest Generation.
🔹 Sir Antony Beevor
📅 Thursday, September 4 | 12:00 PM
📍 Online (Hosted by Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum & Library)
Join us for a live-streamed talk from world-renowned historian Sir Antony Beevor as he highlights the shared experiences of American and British WWII veterans.
🔹 Garrett Graff
📅 Tuesday, September 2 | 6:30 PM
📍 Gerald R. Ford Library - Ann Arbor
Award-winning historian Garrett Graff will share powerful stories of WWII’s defining moments. Register online at https://geraldrfordfoundation.org/
🔹 Garrett Graff
📅 Wednesday, September 3 | 6:00 PM
📍 Loosemore Auditorium, DeVos Center, Grand Valley State University
Hosted by the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies, the award-winning historian Garrett Graff will share powerful stories of WWII’s defining moments. Register online at www.gvsu.edu/hc
🔹 Rick Atkinson
📅 Tuesday, September 2 | 12:15 PM
📍 JW Marriott Grand Rapids
Renowned WWII historian Rick Atkinson, a Presidential Counselor at the National WWII Museum, will discuss the enduring legacy of the Greatest Generation. Brought to you by the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation.
Perspectives on the Greatest Generation – Lecture Series
📅 Tuesday, September 2 – Thursday, September 4
📍 Various Venues
🎟 Free Admission (Registration Required for Some Events)
Renowned WWII historians and authors will be presenting insightful lectures on the impact and legacy of the Greatest Generation.
Rick Atkinson
Garrett Graff
Sir Antony Beevor
Susan Eisenhower
Convocation of Remembrance (Prayer Service)
📅 Thursday, September 4 | 6:00 PM
📍 Saint Andrew’s Cathedral
A heartfelt prayer service led by Bishop Walkowiak, alongside allied nation dignitaries and local religious leaders, to honor those who served and sacrificed for freedom. All are welcome to this special evening of reflection.
Greatest Generation Night at the Whitecaps
📅 Tuesday, September 2 | 6:35 PM
📍 LMCU Ballpark
Cheer on the West Michigan Whitecaps as they pay tribute to the Greatest Generation.
The first 1,000 attendees will receive a commemorative cap.
Whitecaps players in will wear military tribute uniforms.
Gilmore WWII era cars will be on display https://gilmorecarmuseum.org/
Stay tuned for additional themed activities. Secure your tickets here https://www.milb.com/west-michigan/tickets.
Cinematic Salute Film Festival
📅 Friday, September 5 – Sunday, September 7
📍 Studio Park, Downtown Grand Rapids
🎟 Outdoor Screenings (BYO Chairs)
Enjoy classic films that highlight the sacrifices and struggles of the Greatest Generation.
🎬 Showtimes:
Friday, September 5 – 7:00 PM
Saturday, September 6 – 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Sunday, September 7 – 3:00 PM
(In case of inclement weather, screenings will be moved indoors at Studio Park.)
Join Us for This Historic Celebration
This extraordinary week of remembrance and tribute is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to express our gratitude to the few remaining members of the Greatest Generation. Bring your family, especially the younger generation, to ensure the sacrifices and stories of these courageous, patriotic Americans are never forgotten.
Donate to the Greatest Generation Celebration
Honor Our Heroes with Your Gift and Support the Greatest Generation Celebration!
Although we can never repay those who sacrificed for our freedom, your contribution will help us honor the extraordinary men and women of the Greatest Generation. Your gift will make an impact and support the many events during this 5-day celebration.
How You Can Help
Make a One-Time Gift: Any amount helps us honor the legacy of these incredible Americans.
Sponsor an Event: Make a significant impact by becoming a personal or corporate sponsor.
Donate Now and Celebrate Their Legacy
All donations are tax-deductible and made to 501(c)(3) organizations. Proceeds that exceed the costs of the celebration will be divided equally between the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and the Michigan Heroes Museum.
Together, we’ll preserve their stories, honor their sacrifices, and inspire future generations.
For more information or questions about donations, please contact us at: ggcelebration25@gmail.com.
Thank you to Our Supporters
This celebration is proudly organized by the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum, Michigan Heroes Museum, the Hauenstein Center at Grand Valley State University, the City of Grand Rapids and 13 On Your Side. It is being thoughtfully coordinated by a collaboration of dedicated community anchors, whose passion and commitment ensure this event brings history, gratitude, and remembrance to life.