A Preview of Grand Rapids Greatest Generation Celebration: Honoring the 80th Anniversary of the End of World War II (08-09-25)

WYCE's Community Closeup (*conversations concerning issues of importance in West Michigan)

In this episode, we welcome Joel Westphal, Deputy Director, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum

Joel spoke with us about the upcoming multi-day event: The Greatest Generation Celebration: Honoring the 80th Anniversary of the End of World War II.

The events will be spread across several days from September 1-7, 2025.

This Historic Celebration in Grand Rapids offers a full week of remembrance and tribute to America's Greatest Generation.

The events also offer an opportunity to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, honoring the millions of American and Allied forces, patriots, and citizens who made immense sacrifices to ensure a world free of tyranny.

Greatest Generation Events:

Honor Parade & Wings of Honor

📅 Monday, September 1 (Labor Day) | 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM. 📍 Downtown Grand Rapids

Bell Ringing Ceremony

📅 Monday, September 1 | 8:08 PM-📍 Throughout Grand Rapids.

Celebration at the Air Zoo. 📅 Saturday, September 6 | time TBA
📍 Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Center, Kalamazoo, MI

Perspectives on the Greatest Generation – Lecture Series

📅 Tuesday, September 2 – Thursday, September 4
📍 Various Venues
🎟 Free Admission (Registration Required for Some Events)

Renowned WWII historians and authors present insightful lectures on the impact and legacy of the Greatest Generation.

Convocation of Remembrance (Prayer Service)

📅 Tuesday, September 2 | 6:00 PM at Saint Andrew’s Cathedral.

Greatest Generation Night at the Whitecaps

📅 Tuesday, September 2 | 6:35 PM--📍 LMCU Ballpark

Cinematic Salute Film Festival

📅 Friday, September 5 – Sunday, September 7
📍 Studio Park, Downtown Grand Rapids
🎟 Outdoor Screenings (BYO Chairs)

Enjoy classic films that highlight the sacrifices and struggles of the Greatest Generation.

Online: The Greatest Generation Celebration: Honoring the 80th Anniversary of the End of World War II.