May 27, 2004

Public invited to attend WWII memorial dedication telecast

By Kymberli W. Brady
Staff Writer

On Saturday, May 29, the city of San Jose will be one of only five U.S. cities to host a live simulcast of the dedication ceremonies for the much-anticipated National WWII Memorial.

An estimated 120,000 people are expected to gather at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. for the official dedication ceremonies at the memorial site that will honor the 16 million Americans who served in the armed forces, the 400,000 who died, and the millions who supported the war on the homefront.

Hosted by Councilman Chuck Reed and NBC's Janice Edwards, the San Jose program will begin at 10 a.m. and will include exhibits featuring WWII-era memorabilia and equipment. A veteran tribute and multimedia presentation will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by the simulcast at 11 a.m.

Edwards encourages people to bring items with special significance for a time of sharing before the actual program begins “It's really an opportunity for a community celebration and commemoration,” she explains. “We're asking people to bring their veteran memorabilia. It doesn't have to be from WWII, but something that people would like to show or share. My father served in the Korean War and I'm planning to bring his flag, which is so dear to me.”

The community is encouraged to include this “once-in-the-nation's history” experience as part of their Memorial weekend. The event will be held at the San Jose Convention Center, Hall 3 (behind the Hilton San Jose & Towers) at 150 West San Carlos Street. Admission is free, but seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

“The National WWII Memorial symbolizes the spirit of unity, sacrifice, and commitment of the American people during the defining moment of the 20th century, and honors our ‘greatest generation' and all those who serve our county in its time of need.”

For more information about the telecast, call 408-277-4101. For more about the National WWII Memorial visit www.wwiimemorial.com.