Dear Holly,
My message of "thank you" is a bit delayed in being sent your way; however, nonetheless please know how grateful I am to have attended the virtual presentation of "Teaching the 80th Anniversary of D-Day with Primary Sources," in conjunction with The National Archives and the Friends of the National World War II Memorial.
Having been an educator for over 35 years, an author of children's books, and a longtime volunteer at The Armed Forces Retirement Home, Washington, DC, the details, the fluidity, and the overall presentation of "Teaching the 80th Anniversary of D-Day with Primary Sources" was simply superb!
Holly, as Executive Director, Friends of the National World War II Memorial, your introduction/kick-off to the attendees on 15 July, 2024, truly set the stage for the entire educational workshop. Following your introduction to the attendees, I learned so much about the Jack C. Taylor's WWII Education Endowment Fund that provides the funding for such worthwhile educational initiatives at the National World War II Memorial...Alex Kershaw did a fine job on this learning experience.
It was so insightful to listen to the more than 11 presenters at the "Teaching the 80th Anniversary of D-Day with Primary Sources." Jennifer Epstein, Education Specialist, World War II Resources from the National Park Services, having served as an educational specialist for 26 years shared incredible pointers in regards to using the study of memorials to symbolize the education of war. Ms. Epstein's presentation on Fort Hunt being the location of a top-secret military intelligence installation (P.O. Box 1142) a site where high value German captives were interrogated, and means were developed for the escape of U.S. servicemen is new knowledge for me and fascinating.
Holly, learning about the foundation, "Stories Behind The Stars," telling the stories of all of the U.S. 421,000 that lost their lives during World War II, was very compelling. The app that "Stories Behind The Stars Foundation" has developed to provide learning and an understanding of those individuals that made the ultimate sacrifice during WWII is a beautiful contribution. Presenter, Don Milne, who works for the foundation did a fine job informing the attendees of some valuable tools for World War II instruction.
Our family has been a longtime fan of General George S. Patton. Alex Kershaw's presentation, "Patton's Prayer" was both inspiring and informative. Alex's love of history and research comes alive as he discusses his writings with his audience...he is a remarkable storyteller!
My dear friend, Harry F. Miller, SMSgt USAF (retired) U.S. Army 740th Tank Battalion, Battle Of The Bulge, Rhineland and Central Europe, HQ Far East Command, Korean War USAF, HQ Strategic Air Command, Vietnam, delivered impeccable and memorable messages at the Farewell Dinner for the "Teaching the 80th Anniversary of D-Day with Primary Sources." Since the close of the "D-Day Workshop," I have seen Harry at the Armed Forces Retirement Home, Washington, DC and we have had several wonderful conversations. So grateful to call Harry F. Miller my friend.
Holly, thanks yet again for including me in such an outstanding week of impeccable and heartfelt instruction.
Glenna C. Orr
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