Virtual Event

On April 16, 2021, the World War I Centennial Commission celebrated the Inaugural Raising of the Flag of the United States of America over the newly constructed National World War I Memorial site in Washington, DC.

This First Colors Ceremony is designed to “bring our history home.” It began with an American flag that first flew over the United States Capitol on April 6, 2017, commemorating the Centennial of the United States entry into World War I. This commemorative flag was then flown over the American World War I battlefield cemeteries of Europe and WWI Museum in Kansas City, to honor the 116,516 individuals who gave the last full measure of devotion. The flag now returns home to its final destination in Washington, DC, where it will fly high above the National World War I Memorial. The trip this commemorative flag has made recalls the epic journey to Europe by the legendary Doughboys, honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice on the fields of battle, and again rejoices with their triumphant return home. A mission remembered, and again fulfilled.

Please join us as we honor their sacrifice and renew our pledge:
To protect our future…by remembering our past.

The Ceremony Begins in

Please join us for the livestream on April 16, 2021.

Have You Registered?

First Colors Ceremony

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The Memorial’s Journey

An array of key players who brought the World War I Memorial to fruition reflect on the journey of the site and its significance.

Featured Participants & Performances

Our Donors

Founding Sponsor

Pershing Society

($5,000,000+)

Patton Society

($2,500,000 - $4,999,999)

Lafayette Society

($1,000,000 - $2,499,999)

Click Below to See Our Full List of Our Donors

Would You Like to Receive a WWI Commemorative Gift?

To continue your
WWI Journey…