“When students walk the battlefields, they do more than study history—they feel its heartbeat, and carry forward the enduring spirit of those who gave everything for freedom.”
- Joe REILLY, 101st Airborne
Program Overview
Shaped by the firsthand testimonies of World War II veterans, the Class of ’44 program is built upon the enduring ideals they embodied—Duty, Honor, and Country. These ordinary men who achieved the extraordinary not only secured victory but also established a moral framework that has guided generations. Their stories form the foundation of our curriculum, directing students to explore history through the lens of sacrifice, character, and the values that continue to define our nation. Through this immersive experience, the program equips educators to help students understand the past as a source of insight, inspiration, and civic responsibility.
Our Core Values
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The Honor
At Connecting Generations, we’re all about helping young people grow into thoughtful, caring leaders. To us, living with honor means being honest, doing what’s right, owning your actions, and treating everyone with kindness and respect. These values help you become the kind of leader who makes a positive difference—in school, in your community, and in life.
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The Courage
Strength of character means having the courage to do what’s right—even when it’s difficult. It’s about being honest, standing up for your beliefs, and treating yourself and others with respect. This kind of inner strength helps you face tough situations, make wise choices, and become a leader others can trust and look up to.
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The Commitment
We believe every young person has the power to grow through dedication and discipline. That means working hard, staying focused, and not giving up—especially when things get tough. When students show this kind of commitment, they not only reach their goals but also learn to honor and remember the brave heroes who protected our freedom.
“We empower students to travel, learn, and share the living history of us World War II veterans—ensuring our legacies will inspire for generations to come.”
— Peter DUPRE , Medic
The Curriculum
At its core, the Connecting Generations curriculum centers on four defining narratives of American service in World War II: the steadfast sailors of the U.S. Navy who safeguarded the seas, the courageous airmen of the U.S. Army Air Corps who carried out perilous missions across Europe, the Airborne paratroopers who descended into Normandy on D-Day, and the resolute U.S. Army soldiers who advanced across the continent to liberate nations from oppression. Each narrative serves as a thematic anchor for learning, integrating primary sources, ethical inquiry, and place-based exploration in Normandy. Through these carefully crafted modules, the curriculum transforms history into an immersive journey—one in which remembrance fosters understanding, and the enduring lessons of the past shape the character and leadership of tomorrow’s citizens.
Program Highlights
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Selected schools are invited to join this transformative program, with priority extended to those serving underserved communities. The initiative broadens access to meaningful, hands-on learning in World War II history—empowering students to think critically, engage deeply, and connect the lessons of the past to the responsibilities of the present.
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Through a patriotic, curriculum-based immersion in World War II history, students learn the values of duty, honor, and country by engaging with the personal narratives of those who defended freedom. Walking in the footsteps of America’s veterans, they explore the realities of war, the responsibilities of democracy, and the enduring cost of peace—emerging with a deeper respect for sacrifice and a lasting commitment to service and citizenship.
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Embark on an unforgettable educational journey through Normandy’s battlefields, beaches, and memorials, where history comes alive through immersive, place-based learning. This program blends academic depth with emotional resonance, offering participants the opportunity to stand where history was made and reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and leadership that shaped the modern world.
Through expert lectures delivered by renowned historians, veterans, and military scholars, participants gain a deeper understanding of the strategic, human, and ethical dimensions of wartime decision-making. Each discussion enriches on-site learning, transforming historical events into lessons that remain relevant today.
Guided visits to key sites such as Omaha Beach, the Normandy American Cemetery, and the Caen Memorial Museum provide powerful contexts for analyzing resilience, teamwork, and moral leadership under pressure. Participants will engage in reflection and dialogue, connecting past events to contemporary challenges in leadership and service.
Finally, cross-generational mentorship bridges the gap between past and present. By connecting with veterans and educators, participants help preserve living memory through storytelling, conversation, and shared reflection—ensuring that the legacy of Normandy continues to inspire future generations.
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Comprehensive support with application procedures, eligibility guidelines, travel logistics, and academic preparationensures that participating schools and students experience a seamless, well-structured program. Designed in close alignment with educational standards and curricular objectives, the program deepens instructional impact while fostering meaningful engagement with the history of World War II and its enduring relevance to the modern world.
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The program integrates history, civics, social-emotional learning, and leadership to create a holistic educational experience. Students strengthen historical literacy, explore duty and democracy in action, build empathy and resilience, and develop storytelling and communication skills—emerging as ambassadors of remembrance and civic engagement.
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The program empowers students to preserve veterans’ legacies, deepen historical understanding, and apply lessons of the past to modern civic challenges. Through reflection on sacrifice, resilience, and moral choice, participants cultivate empathy, character, and leadership—emerging as responsible citizens committed to honoring history and shaping a better future.
Nominate Your School
To be considered for this honor, each school must submit a student-written nomination letter that demonstrates deep respect for history, heartfelt gratitude to veterans, and a strong commitment to civic responsibility and service. This letter stands as a declaration of readiness—a pledge to honor and uphold the legacy of those who sacrificed for freedom while carrying their values forward into the future.
