CONNECTING GENERATIONS. INSPIRING LEADERS.

“Empowering young Americans to carry the torch of freedom—through life-changing travel to Normandy, France.”

“Education remains the most effective force for transforming young minds, and the study of history should be freely accessible to all young people who aspire to learn.”

— Steve MELNIKOFF, Omaha Beach

WELCOME

Connecting Generations: Class of ’44 is a scholarship-supported travel enrichment program that keeps the legacy of World War II alive by uniting generations through shared learning and purpose. Guided by veterans and grounded in thoughtful preparation, participants journey to Normandy’s battlefields and memorials to stand where history was made and sacrifice was lived. Through reflection, conversation, and remembrance, the program inspires civic responsibility, strengthens leadership, and honors the enduring courage of the Greatest Generation—ensuring their stories continue to shape the leaders of tomorrow.

“Bringing students and veterans together on historic battlefields transforms history into living memory, honoring the courage and sacrifice of the Greatest Generation.”

- John KELLY, USMC

  • “Many students report that visiting the D-Day beaches is a powerful, enduring experience that enriches their understanding of World War II and the sacrifices made for freedom.”

    Dr. Earl Bruce HEILMAN, WWII

  • “Standing on the beaches and visiting cemeteries and memorials allows students to connect with the courage and history of the past, fostering a sense of responsibility for the present.”

    Lt. Arthur MEYERS, WWII

  • “Visiting the war cemeteries, like the Normandy American Cemetery with us veterans, helps students comprehend the immense sacrifice made by Allied soldiers.”

    Melvin WALKER, WWII

  • “Encountering different societal norms and seeing how the French honor the memory of the war can foster a greater sense of global citizenship and intercultural understanding.”

    Joseph REILLY, WWII

  • “Hearing firsthand accounts from veterans, when possible, further personalizes the experience and adds a human dimension to the historical narrative.”

    Clayton NATTIER, WWII

“History is not just about the past—it is about instilling in young people a sense of duty, honor, and love of country, so they may carry forward the sacrifices of those who came before.”

- Timothy DAVIS, Founder

Group of children and elderly people gathered on a stage in front of a building decorated with flags and banners for a school or community event.
Group of young people in red shirts standing outdoors, holding a red banner that reads 'USC NAVAL ROTC', with a flag in the center, in a park-like setting with trees and flags in the background.
Group of people gathered inside a room with paintings of veterans on the wall, large window to the right, and a stained glass window on the back wall.
Group photo of young people and two older individuals wearing commemorative jackets and shirts, standing outside a building with beige walls and white window shutters, celebrating a remembrance event.
Group of elderly veterans and supporters gathered outdoors around a memorial, some wearing medals and hats, holding an American flag.
Group of veterans, including military officers in uniform, posing together outdoors on a pathway, some wearing hats with military insignia. The background features a rural landscape with fields and trees.
Group of people standing in front of a World War II bunker with a large artillery cannon.
Large group of people sitting on the steps of a historic building with European architecture, arched windows, and flags flying above the entrance.

“This experience showed me that the legacy of World War II proves freedom and leadership are inseparable—and its lessons still shape who we become.”

- James ROBERTSON, Class of 2023