Historical Societies Join Forces to Commemorate WWI Centennial
Lakewood Historical Society (LHS) and Tacoma Historical Society (THS) host “SALUTE PIERCE COUNTY” to celebrate its rich military heritage
WHEN: Sunday, October 19, 2014, 4-8pm
WHERE: American Lake Conference Center, 8085 NCO Beach Road, Joint Base Lewis-McChord
How and why did the "war to end all wars" begin? A variety of events and political maneuvers made WWI inevitable. On Sunday, October 19, 2014, two local historical societies will host the fundraiser "SALUTE PIERCE COUNTY." The event will celebrate the military history of Pierce County while marking the centennial year of the First World War.
“SALUTE PIERCE COUNTY” will be emceed by Brigadier General (USA Ret) Doug Richardson and feature a buffet dinner, dessert dash, live music and special educational displays provided by the Lewis Army Museum, the Washington National Guard Museum, the Buffalo Soldiers Museum, and the two host Societies. A unique display, entitled “Beauty and Duty”, from the private collection of Alice and Steve Miller, and will showcase service women’s uniforms from World War I.
The featured speakers include Myles Grant, Director of Lewis Army Museum, and Major General (USA Ret) James "Jimmie" Collins, who retired in 2007 as Deputy Commander I Corps, JBLM, and is currently serving as a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army. The program will also include presentation of service awards to The Honorable Norm Dicks and former Lakewood Mayor, Claudia Thomas.
“With the centennial of First World War, this is a ‘once in a century’ opportunity to celebrate the military heritage of our region, as well as honor our veterans,” said Becky Huber, President of LHS. Bill Baarsma, former Tacoma Mayor, added: “This celebration will advance one of THS's top goals: to foster an appreciation of the past and a sense of place within our community’s history.”
Proceeds from the event will help fund both Societies’ efforts to protect, preserve, and promote our local history. The cost is $50 per person with an early-bird rate of $45 before September 17. Organizations and businesses are invited to host a table or sponsor the event. Seating is limited - make your reservations now. Tickets can be purchased from either Society online or by phone: LHS 253-682-3480, www.lakewoodhistorical.org. THS- 253-472-3738, www.tacomahistory.org.
About Lakewood Historical Society: Lakewood Historical Society, founded in 1998, is a volunteer-supported 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit corporation with the mission to identify, preserve, and perpetuate Lakewood's history. The Society operates a museum at 6211 Mt Tacoma Drive SW in the Lakewood Colonial Center.
About Tacoma Historical Society: Tacoma Historical Society is a volunteer-supported 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit corporation with the mission to preserve, promote, and present the history of the City of Tacoma and its people. The Society operates a museum at 919 Pacific Avenue in Tacoma. This event marks the Society’s 8th annual Destiny Dinner.