College and Universities
The Greatest Generations Foundation began to provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences for College and University students in 2009. Through T.G.G.F these students accompany World War II veterans back to the battlefields where they fought. The program’s mission is to educate the younger generation about the sacrifices of American soldiers so that their stories will never be forgotten.
The rich educational journey provides a life-changing experience for the students, who not only learn volumes of history from World War II participants, but grow to love and appreciate them as well. The students who have participated in the trips have returned with renewed respect for veterans and dramatically increased love for their country. Visiting battlefields in Europe and the Pacific, students learn firsthand from WWII veterans about the circumstances of war. The connecting generations travel program continues to inspire both veterans and students and has proven successful at bridging the generational gap and facilitating a transfer of knowledge. The veterans report finding comfort as they overcome some of the isolation that accompanies older age while the students feel as though they have truly encountered history.
For these programs, students are selected through a competitive process that takes into consideration the academic, work and social capabilities of each applicant. Proper selection of students with an appreciation for World War II history and a willingness to serve is vital. Approximately 20 students participate on each program.
