Help Restore World War I Memorials

The American Legion’s first generation was heavily involved with – if not fully responsible for – design, construction and dedication of hundreds of monuments and memorials to honor those who served, fought and died in World War I.

Over the decades, many of these sacred landmarks have become weathered and aged, if not forgotten altogether, and are in need of restoration. That is why The American Legion’s National Executive Committee passed a resolution in May to promote and participate in a joint venture with the U.S. World War One Centennial Commission and the Pritzker Military Museum and Library: “100 Cities/100 Memorials.”

Legion posts are encouraged to apply for funds through the program, which is designed to foster a sense of heritage in local communities, recognize local stories and people who were involved in the war, and create a way for community members to participate in the national World War I centennial.

Matching grants of up to $2,000 per applicant are available for the restoration of sacred places to honor those who served in the Great War.

Videos on the World War One Centennial Commission website at www.ww1cc.org/100memorials will explain how to conserve memorials, research a memorial’s history and create a project plan for submission. The application deadline is June 15, 2017. Memorials need to be located in the 50 states or U.S. territories, and the preservation work must be completed (or have been completed) between Jan. 1, 2014, and Nov. 11, 2018.