Wednesday, October 2, 2019

World War I Memorial - Centennial Project

Recently I was flying home from Washington DC and my seatmate asked about Mama, who was curled up on the floor.  As we talked, she learned I was with the VFW and we talked about women in the VFW.  It was then we learned we knew an important woman in the VFW, Debra Anderson Quartermaster General, in common.

Ms Susan Davis is the Chairman of Susan Davis International, one of the largest public relations and business events agencies in the United States.  She worked with Debra and others on the World War One Centennial Commission.  That Commission, as many of you know, is also responsible for the proposed World War I Memorial that will eventually be built in Pershing Park, Washington DC.

The Memorial itself is about 60 feet long, with multiple panels showing a man going off to war, events in the war, his coming home, and the aftermath.  If you've been to National Convention in the last year or two you may have seen a mock up of the sculpture, entitled "The Weight of Sacrifice."  Ms Davis graciously sent me a link to a great video that talks with the sculptor, Sabin Howard, goes into the events of World War I, and interviews various public figures.  The discussion with the sculptor really brings out what he attempted to do in each panel.  Following the interviews there is a live action diorama of each panel, using actors in period costumes, with the narrator going over the scenes.  It is very moving and I encourage you to watch it, but, fair warning, you may need the Kleenex.  The video ends with speakers and singers, and is from an event called "Living Memorial:  A Special Introduction."

You never know who you will meet randomly on an airplane.  I'm so glad I was able to meet and get to know Ms Davis.  I know we will collaborate in the future.  Thank you Ms Davis for sending this great video for all of us to see!

https://vimeo.com/299480300