Special programming is planned at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans this May 27.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of D-Day— an incredible wartime operation repositioning World War II in the Allies favor. A special exhibit at the National World War II Museum highlights the incredible accomplishment of American Armed Forces on D-Day.

It was made possible by a New Orleans boatbuilder–Andrew Jackson Higgins. Higgins created the Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel (LCVP) that was essential to the success of the Normandy invasion on D-Day as well as all other major amphibious landings of the war.

A recently opened permanent exhibit highlights Andrew Higgins and the Home Front workers of Higgins Industries whose tireless efforts made D-Day possible.

On Memorial Day, visitors can participate in activities at the museum from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.:

US Marine Forces Reserve Band Performance
10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

A program of patriotic music performed by this versatile ensemble will begin the day’s commemorative activities.

Commemoration Ceremony
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

To mark Memorial Day, The National WWII Museum will host a ceremony honoring the families of the fallen. Join us for this solemn remembrance of those who paid the ultimate price for their country.

*  Program:

• Presentation of Colors
  Riverdale High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Color Guard
• National Anthem
  US Marine Forces Reserve Band
• Pledge of Allegiance
• Retirement of Colors
• Invocation
• Welcome
  Stephen Watson, President & CEO, The National WWII Museum
• POW/MIA Ceremony
  Riverdale High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Honor Guard
• Keynote
  Brigadier General Vincent B. Barker, Deputy Commanding General, 377th Theater Sustainment Command, US Army Reserve
• Families of the Fallen/Gold Star Families recognition
  Laura Kinkton, Mother of Aviation Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Dakota “Kody” Kinkton, US Navy

  Family of Sergeant Warren Anthony Murphy, 2nd Battalion, 156th Infantry, Louisiana Army National Guard

• Memorial Prayer
• “Taps”
  US Marine Forces Reserve Band
• Closing Remarks

National Moment of Silence
3:00 p.m. – 3:05 p.m.

Each year the Museum joins the nation in a moment of silence for our fallen. The moment concludes with the ringing of the Normandy Liberty Bell.