In August 2010, Congress unanimously voted in favor of a national “Spirit of ’45 Day” honoring the legacy of the men and women who were the “ordinary heroes” of the World War II generation.  

“Spirit of ’45 Day “ is now being observed in hundreds of communities throughout America on the second Sunday in every August, aligning with the anniversary of August 14, 1945 - the day President Harry S. Truman announced that World War II was over - the Greatest Generation’s Greatest Day.

On that day, as the world rejoiced at the news that the most destructive war in history had ended, the United States assumed the leadership for laying the foundations for a better future for its children and their children’s children, for former friend and foe alike.  Life magazine published an iconic photo of a joyous sailor kissing a nurse in New York’s Times Square that has become the symbol of “Spirit of ’45 Day,” calling the year 1945 “the hinge of history” as a new world was born and with it a new America.   

Every town and city has a story of August 14, 1945 to tell.  The surviving members of the generation that endured the difficult times of the Great Depression, achieved victory in WWII, and then went on to rebuild the world, are now departing, but the memory of their extraordinary achievements lives on in the family histories of their descendants.  

“Spirit of ’45 Day” provides us an opportunity to remind us of their courage, shared sacrifice, and commitment to service so that their example of national unity and community can inspire future generations of Americans, especially our nation’s youth.

Dear Ron,

     I would like to share with you my daughter's story from the ceremony on Sunday.

     As a family, I have to say that we were absolutely privileged to be a part of such a wonderful event this past Sunday at Veteran's Park, here in McHenry.  The entire event was heartwarming, and it also helped my family to remember the sacrifices that the men and women of our country have done for all of us.

     During the ceremony we were sitting very close to veteran.  This veteran was sadly in his wheelchair, which indicated that his health may not be the best.  During the ceremony I would glance over at him, and there would be tears in his eyes, and on his cheeks.  It broke my heart.    

     My little girl Zoe who is eight, asked me why the man was crying.  I told her to the best of my ability what I thought he might be feeling, and why.  I told her that he protected people like her and I, and everyone that we love.  That he took time away from his very own family, to make sure strangers like us were safe, and could continue to be free.  

     She looked at me, and I told her that I would talk more about it after the ceremony, that we needed to listen to the rest of the ceremony, as taps had begun to play.  

     As the ceremony came to an end, she took my hand and asked me if she could talk to the man that had "all those tears."  She then asked me if I would go with her.  So we walked the very short distance to him, and I told him my daughter wanted to talk with him.  He looked at Zoe, and my little girl said these words:

     "I want to thank you for protecting me, and my family, and for keeping everyone safe".  

The veteran looked at her and fresh tears started, but I could tell that her thanking him made him feel good.  I, of course, was crying, and I hugged him and thanked him myself.  I was so proud of my daughter, that she  talked to the veteran, and that she really understands that there are complete strangers everyday protecting us.  I am also proud that she was humble enough not to be shy, and was able to actually thank him.

     Again Ron, thank you for such a wonderful event.  The Boxlietner family will attend every year!!