News Summary

New Orleans is set to host the 25th Anniversary American Spirit Awards at the National WWII Museum on May 29-30. This event will recognize exemplary individuals and kick off a year-long celebration. Honorees include notable figures like Donald T. Bollinger and C. Paul Hilliard, along with a special Billy Michal Student Leadership Award. The celebration culminates on June 6, commemorating both the museum’s anniversary and the D-Day invasion. Join for a week filled with meaningful events honoring WWII contributions and a special family day.

New Orleans Gears Up for 25th Anniversary with American Spirit Awards

Excitement is brewing in New Orleans as the National WWII Museum rolls out the red carpet for its 2025 American Spirit Awards. These prestigious awards are set to not only recognize remarkable individuals but also kick off a year-long celebration marking the museum’s fantastic 25th anniversary.

Who’s in the Spotlight?

This year, the museum is honoring a trio of incredible recipients who truly embody the American spirit and inspire the best in others. Among the honorees is Donald T. “Boysie” Bollinger, a well-known businessman from New Orleans who has made significant contributions to the community. Joining him is C. Paul Hilliard, a courageous WWII veteran whose experiences encapsulate the very essence of bravery. Last but not least, Gordon H. “Nick” Mueller, the Founding President & CEO Emeritus of the museum, will also be celebrated for his tireless efforts in preserving WWII history.

Celebration Details

Mark your calendars for May 29–30! The events will be hosted right at the museum’s unique campus in the heart of New Orleans. The festivities kick off with a special reception for the recipients and patrons on Thursday evening, paving the way for the grand American Spirit Awards Gala on Friday night. This isn’t just an awards event; it’s a heartfelt celebration of those who’ve worked hard to keep the stories of WWII alive and impactful.

A Nod to Future Leaders

In addition to honoring remarkable individuals, the American Spirit Awards will also feature the annual Billy Michal Student Leadership Award. This award stands out by recognizing students from every state and the District of Columbia who show incredible volunteerism, activism, and creative problem-solving abilities. Inspired by the legacy of Louisiana’s own Billy Michal, who helped his school win a scrap metal drive during WWII, this initiative aims to shine a light on the leaders of tomorrow.

A Weekend of Inspiration

Students who receive this award will engage in a weekend filled with exciting leadership activities designed to equip them with valuable skills as they aid their communities. This commitment to nurturing youth is just one part of the spirited week of events lined up.

A Week of Remembrance and Celebration

As the American Spirit Awards usher in the festivities, they mark the beginning of a complete week dedicated to celebrating the profound contributions of the WWII generation along with the museum’s achievements and aspirations. Not to miss is the launch of Nick Mueller’s new book, “Preserving the Legacy: Creating The National WWII Museum,” that dives into the fascinating journey of the institution. There will also be a special 25th Anniversary Family and Member Day that promises fun activities for all ages.

Mark Your Calendars for June 6

The grand finale of the celebration will take place on June 6, a significant date that beautifully aligns with both the museum’s 25th anniversary and the 81st anniversary of the historic D-Day invasion at Normandy. Expect a day filled with meaningful commemorative events and an uplifting concert that honors the sacrifices and stories from this pivotal time in history.

Get Involved!

To stay informed and catch all the buzz leading up to the 25th-anniversary celebrations and the American Spirit Awards, the museum encourages everyone to visit their website. So, gear up for what promises to be an unforgettable tribute to those who shaped our nation during one of its toughest times!