“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

— Nelson MANDELA

WELCOME

Connecting Generations is an educational enrichment program that places learning within the sacred landscapes of Normandy, France—where the courage and sacrifice of World War II veterans are forever etched in history. By honoring these heroes through immersive study, students move beyond textbooks to understand the profound human cost of freedom. The curriculum blends historical scholarship with experiential learning, inspiring participants to think critically, empathize deeply, and embrace the enduring responsibilities of remembrance, gratitude, and global citizenship.

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

- Gen. John KELLY, USMC

  • “Many students find visiting the D-Day beaches a powerful, lasting experience that deepens 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 journey taught me that true leadership and freedom are inseparable from responsibility, and that the lessons of history guide the people we become.”

— James ROBERTSON, Class of 2023