The Bob & Dolores Hope Foundation and the Gary Sinise Foundation are collaborating with the Battleship Missouri Memorial and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum to honor the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II. This commemoration, featuring public events including a free concert, will take place from August 30th to September 2nd in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, recognizing the sacrifices and legacy of the Greatest Generation.
Honoring Valor at Iconic WWII Sites
Choosing Pearl Harbor for this event underscores the deep historical significance of the location, linking critical moments from the start and the end of World War II. The opening concert, led by Gary Sinise and his Lt. Dan Band, will be held on August 30th at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, a notable World War II aviation battleground. The closing ceremony will occur on September 2nd at the pier adjacent to the Battleship Missouri, the very site where the Instrument of Surrender was signed in 1945, officially ending the war.
Commemorating the Greatest Generation’s Sacrifice
Linda Hope, Chair and CEO of the Bob & Dolores Hope Foundation, expressed the honor felt in remembering World War II heroes during this significant milestone. She said,
“We are honored to remember the heroes of World War II as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII, Joining with Gary Sinise, it is our privilege to pay tribute to the valor and sacrifice of those who served in our military during World War II, as well as to the everyday Americans on the home front who also sacrificed to help restore peace to the world. We are proud to salute the service and honor the hope of our Greatest Generation.”
Gary Sinise, an actor and humanitarian closely connected to the legacy of WWII through his uncle’s service as a B-17 navigator, highlighted the personal importance of this tribute. He stated,
“Honoring the heroes of the Greatest Generation, our nation’s World War II veterans, has always been close to my heart, My Uncle Jack, a B-17 navigator in WWII, played a big role in inspiring my deep respect for those who served during that time. Through the Gary Sinise Foundation, we’ve worked to make sure their legacy and the sacrifices they made for our freedom are never forgotten. As we mark the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII, it’s a true privilege to bring the Lt. Dan Band to Hawaii on August 30th to honor, salute, and say thank you to these incredible men and women. We owe them so much.”
Remembering the Historic WWII Surrender
The 80th anniversary commemoration might be the final chance to gather surviving veterans who witnessed the war’s end firsthand. On September 2, 1945, thousands assembled on the deck of the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay to witness the signing of the Instrument of Surrender, marking the conclusion of the global conflict. In a historic parallel, the 2025 ceremony will welcome eight veterans from the USS Missouri for a remembrance event on the pier adjacent to the ship’s Surrender Deck, symbolizing both reflection and respect for that pivotal day.
Gary Sinise & Lt. Dan Band’s Continued Support for Service Members
The Lt. Dan Band, part of the Gary Sinise Foundation, echoes the efforts of Bob Hope and other entertainers who brought morale to troops during wartime. Having performed nearly 600 concerts worldwide, the band has become a significant source of encouragement and appreciation for service members. Their participation in this 80th anniversary event continues that tradition of honoring military service through music and celebration.
Preserving the Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
Support from the Bob & Dolores Hope Foundation, the presenting sponsor of this 80th-anniversary event, along with the Gary Sinise Foundation, ensures that the stories and sacrifices of World War II veterans remain vivid in national memory. The Battleship Missouri Memorial and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, as official hosts, will hold several events over four days, providing the public with opportunities to engage with history and pay homage to those who shaped a more peaceful world.
The Enduring Importance of Commemoration
This landmark event not only commemorates a key moment in history but also aims to inspire future generations by highlighting the courage, resilience, and dedication of the Greatest Generation. As attendees gather in Pearl Harbor this late summer, the ceremonies and celebrations will reaffirm a national commitment to remembering those who secured freedom and peace for all.
