Friday, September 13, 2024, marked an unforgettable evening in Washington, D.C., as the National World War One Memorial held its First Illumination Ceremony. The gathering was more than just a visual spectacle; it was a poignant tribute to the brave men and women who served in “The Great War.” As the Memorial was bathed in light, each beam symbolized a story, a sacrifice, and a legacy that should never be forgotten.
Following almost 3 years of neutrality as war raged in Europe, the U.S. declared war on Germany on April 6, 1917. On November 11, 1918, Germany surrendered. In just 18 short months, over two million US forces were deployed “Over There”. In what was deemed “the war to end war”, over 4.7 million American sons and daughters served during World War 1. The sacrifice was immense: 204,000 wounded Americans returned home; 115,516 did not.
With no existing memorial in our nation’s capital, the U.S. World War 1 Centennial Commission was created by an Act of Congress in 2013. The overall stated mission of planning, developing, and executing programs, projects, and activities to commemorate the Centennial of World War 1 included the building of a national memorial in Washington, D.C.
At C. Forbes, Inc., we have had the distinct honor of working on this project since its earliest stages. From our initial commission in 2015 by the World War One Centennial Commission to our ongoing collaboration with the Doughboy Foundation, we have been deeply committed to preserving the memory of those who fought for freedom over a century ago. Through our customized gifts and keepsakes, we’ve been privileged to help raise awareness and funds for this important cause, building a lasting community around this memorial.
Building a Legacy Together
The story of the National World War One Memorial is not just about fountains, stone, and bronze—it’s about collective memory and national pride. Since being entrusted with the task of managing the official merchandise program at www.doughboy.shop, we have strived to create meaningful products that honor the past while supporting the future of the Memorial. Our unique offerings, from personalized keepsakes to event-specific memorabilia, have played a small yet significant role in helping keep the story of World War One alive.
In addition to the online shop, our firm has provided donor gifts and custom products at special events and meetings, creating touchpoints for individuals to engage with the Memorial and the legacy of World War One. Each item sold contributes directly to sustaining the Memorial and its mission to educate future generations about the war that reshaped the world.
An Event to Remember: The First Illumination
The First Illumination Ceremony on Friday night was a breathtaking display, where light and shadow danced across the faces of the Memorial’s sculptures, bringing to life the sacrifices of the “Doughboys”—the American soldiers who fought in World War One, the nurses and their famalies. Attendees were moved by the symbolism of the lights, which represented hope, sacrifice, and remembrance.
For those who couldn’t be there in person, we highly encourage you to watch the replay of this powerful event below or on the Doughboy Foundation’s YouTube channel. It’s an opportunity to witness a new chapter in the ongoing story of how we, as a nation, remember and honor the past.
A Journey of Honor
At C. Forbes Inc., we are incredibly proud to have been part of this journey. From the groundbreaking ceremony in 2017; recognition of the 2018 Centennial of the Armistice with Bells of Peace; the start of construction in 2019; and the April 2021 Inaugural Raising of the Flag at the World War One Memorial venue (without the sculptural centerpiece) as it was officially opened to the public, we’ve been honored to work alongside the dedicated teams of the World War One Centennial Commission and the Doughboy Foundation. These organizations have shown remarkable dedication to ensuring that the legacy of World War One and its veterans continues to resonate with future generations.
As we look to the future, we wish the National World War One Memorial and the Doughboy Foundation continued success in their vital mission. It has been a privilege to contribute to this project, and we remain committed to supporting its goals in every way we can.
Visit the Memorial and Show Your Support
The National World War One Memorial in Washington D.C. stands as a testament to sacrifice, bravery, and unity. If you haven’t had the chance to visit yet, we encourage you to make it a priority the next time you’re in our nation’s capital. Standing in front of the memorial is a humbling experience—one that connects us with the past and reminds us of the price of our freedom.
Before the online gift program winds down, we also invite you to explore the many unique keepsakes available on www.doughboy.shop. Each purchase helps ensure that the Memorial remains a lasting tribute to the men and women who served in World War One.
Together, let’s continue to honor their memory and keep the flame of remembrance alive.
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To learn more about the WWI Memorial and its mission, visit www.doughboy.org.
To learn more about the C. Forbes line of custom gifts, keepsakes, awards and recognition products, view our Lookbook online.
Martha Maston and Sam Forbes contributed to this article. Photography by Sam Forbes.